Calcutta High Court Grants Anticipatory Bail to BJP MLA in Bigamy Allegations
The Calcutta High Court has granted anticipatory bail to actor and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Hiranmoy Chattopadhyaya in a significant legal development. This decision comes in response to a formal complaint lodged by his wife, who has accused him of entering into an illegal second marriage, thereby causing her severe mental and physical distress.
Court Imposes Strict Conditions on Bail
Justice Jay Sengupta, presiding over the case, approved the anticipatory bail but imposed stringent conditions to ensure compliance with the ongoing investigation. The court has directed Hiranmoy Chattopadhyaya to appear before the investigating officer at the Anandapur police station once every 15 days. This requirement is intended to facilitate the police inquiry and maintain judicial oversight while the case proceeds.
Background of the Complaint and Allegations
The complaint was officially filed by Chattopadhyaya's wife on January 22, 2026, marking the beginning of this high-profile legal battle. In her allegations, she claims that Hiranmoy Chattopadhyaya illegally married Ritika Giri, which she discovered through his social media profiles. This alleged second marriage has been described as a source of considerable mental and physical torture for her, prompting her to seek legal recourse.
The First Information Report (FIR) registered against Hiranmoy Chattopadhyaya includes charges under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These charges are:
- Section 82(1): This section pertains to marrying again during the lifetime of a spouse, which is a criminal offense punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
- Section 85: This section addresses cruelty committed by a woman's husband or his relatives, adding another layer to the allegations of mistreatment.
Political and Personal Implications
Hiranmoy Chattopadhyaya has been serving as the BJP MLA for Kharagpur Sadar since 2021, making this case not only a personal matter but also one with potential political ramifications. The allegations of bigamy and cruelty could impact his public image and political career, drawing attention from both legal and political spheres.
The court's decision to grant anticipatory bail allows Chattopadhyaya to avoid immediate arrest while the investigation continues. However, the conditions set by Justice Sengupta emphasize the seriousness of the allegations and the need for thorough police scrutiny. This case highlights the intersection of personal conduct, legal accountability, and public office, underscoring the importance of adherence to marital laws in India.
As the investigation unfolds, further developments are expected to shed light on the validity of the claims and the legal outcomes for all parties involved. The case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences of bigamy and the protections available to spouses under Indian law.
