State authorities on Thursday informed the Calcutta High Court that nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the New Market incident. The court subsequently directed the state government to submit a detailed affidavit in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning an alleged illegal bulldozer action in the area.
Court Proceedings and Arrests
Deputy Solicitor General (DSG) Dhiraj Kumar Trivedi presented the information before the bench, stating that the demolished structure was an illegal roadside construction. The arrests were made as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident, which has drawn significant public attention.
Details of the PIL
The PIL was filed challenging the alleged unauthorized demolition carried out by authorities in the New Market area. The petitioners argued that the bulldozer action was conducted without proper legal procedures, causing undue hardship to affected residents and shop owners.
During the hearing, the court emphasized the need for a thorough inquiry into the matter. It directed the state to provide a comprehensive affidavit detailing the circumstances leading to the demolition, the legal basis for the action, and the steps taken to ensure compliance with due process.
Government's Stand
The state government, through its counsel, maintained that the demolished structure was an illegal encroachment on public land. It argued that the action was taken to clear unauthorized constructions that posed safety hazards and violated urban planning norms.
However, the court sought further clarification on whether proper notices were issued to the occupants before the demolition. It also asked for details on the compensation or rehabilitation measures, if any, provided to those affected.
Next Hearing
The Calcutta High Court has scheduled the next hearing for a later date, giving the state time to file its affidavit. The court also directed that no further coercive action be taken in the area until the matter is fully examined.
Meanwhile, the arrested individuals remain in custody as investigations continue. The legal proceedings are being closely watched by local residents and civil rights groups, who have raised concerns about the use of bulldozers in eviction drives.
