Calcutta HC orders CBI probe into Sandeshkhali sexual assault, land-grabbing charges.
Calcutta High Court orders CBI probe into Sandeshkhali sexual assault & land grabbing allegations.
The Calcutta High Court issued a directive on Wednesday for a court-monitored investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into alleged instances of sexual assault and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali. The court emphasized the necessity of an unbiased inquiry in the pursuit of justice and fairness.
Chief Justice T S Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharyya, comprising the division bench, also instructed the CBI to establish a secure "dedicated portal" for lodging complaints, ensuring confidentiality and protection for victims and witnesses.
In its ruling, the court stated, "Given the complex nature of the situation and the seriousness of the alleged offenses, we firmly believe that an impartial investigation by an agency empowered to probe criminal activities is essential. Therefore, for the interest of justice and fairness, and for the prompt consideration of numerous complaints and allegations, an impartial investigation must be carried out." The court emphasized the need for cooperation from the state to facilitate the appointed agency's investigation.
The division bench's decision came during the hearing of several petitions filed by women in Sandeshkhali, alleging sexual assault by local Trinamool Congress leaders, as well as complaints regarding land grabbing and violence.
Instead of forming an expert committee led by a retired High Court Judge, the court directed the CBI to conduct the investigation and submit a report regarding the allegations and complaints from Sandeshkhali residents. The court granted parties the liberty to file their complaints with the CBI within two weeks of receiving the server copy of the order.
To ensure confidentiality, the court ordered the CBI to establish a dedicated portal/email ID for lodging complaints, with the District Magistrate of North 24 Parganas instructed to publicize this information locally and issue a Public Notice in widely circulated newspapers in the region, using vernacular language.
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