High Court reacts strongly to disruption at Howrah court
The Calcutta High Court has issued a contempt notice to senior IPS officer Vishal Garg and six police personnel in connection with a chaotic incident at the Howrah court premises last week. The decision was made by a division bench led by Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam, which took suo motu cognisance of media reports and videos of the altercation.
According to the footage, a group of police officials allegedly used excessive force while attempting to enter the courtroom during a high-profile remand hearing. Lawyers present objected, and the situation escalated, leading to a near-physical confrontation.
Court calls for accountability and explanation
The bench has sought a personal explanation from Garg and the officers involved, questioning their conduct within a judicial space. “The dignity of the court must be upheld at all costs,” the order stated. The court has asked the state government to file a detailed report before the next hearing on May 10.
The West Bengal Bar Association has welcomed the court’s action. “This is not just about one incident but the need to maintain institutional respect,” said advocate Anirban Ghosh, who was present during the incident.
Political overtones spark reactions across parties
Political parties were quick to weigh in. Leaders from the BJP alleged a breakdown in law and order under the Trinamool Congress-led government. “If senior police officials can behave like this in court, what does that say about state policing?” said BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul.
TMC, on the other hand, urged restraint and stressed that the matter is now sub judice. “We should allow the judiciary to investigate and respond appropriately,” said TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh.
Public trust and image of judiciary at stake
Legal experts believe this case could set a precedent for defining the limits of police behaviour inside judicial premises. “It’s a delicate balance between law enforcement and judicial independence,” said senior advocate Malabika Banerjee.
Meanwhile, civil society groups and retired judges have called for mandatory sensitisation training for police personnel deployed at court premises.
