Fri Sep 20 07:24:35 UTC 2024: ## CBI Rebuked by Supreme Court for “Hostile Environment” Claim in Bengal Election Violence Cases

The Supreme Court on Friday sharply criticized the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for its petition seeking to transfer cases related to violence following the 2021 West Bengal election outside the state. The CBI, citing concerns over witness intimidation, had alleged a “hostile environment” prevailing in Bengal courts, a statement that drew strong disapproval from the bench.

Justices Abhay S Oka and Pankaj Mithal deemed the CBI’s language “irresponsible” and a “grave aspersions” against the entire Bengal judiciary. “You are talking as if there is a ‘hostile environment’ in the whole of Bengal… How can you say ‘hostile atmosphere prevails in Bengal courts’?” the court questioned the Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, representing the CBI.

While the court warned of contempt of court proceedings, the CBI apologized and withdrew the petition, promising to file a fresh one with more carefully worded arguments. The agency had been mandated by the Calcutta High Court to investigate the heinous crimes of rape, murder, and other instances of violence post-election, alongside a special police team.

The 2021 Assembly polls witnessed the Trinamool Congress securing victory over a strong challenge from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, the election period and its aftermath were marred by widespread violence, with social media flooded with images and videos of atrocities, each party blaming the other.

The High Court had previously criticized the state police for their handling of these cases, highlighting their reluctance to file complaints and their apparent bias towards the accused, often identified as ruling party supporters.

The BJP welcomed the Supreme Court’s judgment, calling it historic and a vindication of their claims. The Trinamool Congress, however, expressed unhappiness over the CBI’s summons.

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