Calcutta High Court on Tuesday took suo motu cognisance over the alleged incidents of sexual assaults of women in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas at gun points and transfer of lands of tribal people in violation of relevant laws.
A single-judge bench of Justice Apurba Sinha Ray expressed gross disappointment over the alleged incidents of violence against women in Sandeshkhali and issued notice to the West Bengal government.
The high court also issued notices to the the Inspector General of Police, DIG of Police (Barasat Range), Superintendent of Police & District Magistrate of North 24 Parganas.
"I have been grossly disappointed after going through several newspapers and electronic media reportings where it has been reported that a good numbers of ladies in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas have been sexually assaulted at gun points. It has been also alleged... on 9th February, 2024 as well as 10th February, 2024 that the tribal lands were taken away forcibly in violation of all legal formalities and laws. It is learnt that there are certain violence over the properties of the innocent people." the court noted in its order dated February 13.
Acting on its powers under Article 226 of the Constitution, the court took suo motu cognisance of the reports of alleged incidents of violence in Sandeshkhali area of the State of West Bengal.
"However, considering all the aspects I am constrained to take suo moto cognisance over the alleged incidents in respect of only the allegation of sexual assaults of ladies in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas at gun points and transfer of lands of tribal people in violation of relevant laws." the court order read.
The high court has asked the Advocate General of the State to address or satisfy the court on any query over the matter.
The court also appointed Advocate Jayanta Narayan Chattopadhyay to act as an amicus curiae. The matter is listed for further hearing on February 20.