Calcutta High Court Grants Permission for BJP's Parivartan Yatra in West Bengal

The Calcutta High Court has granted permission for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to hold its Parivartan Yatra in West Bengal on March 1 and 2, 2024. This decision comes after the state government initially denied permission, citing security concerns during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls.

Court's Conditions and Observations

Justice Suvra Ghosh, while allowing the yatra, imposed several strict conditions to ensure public order and safety. The court emphasized that the right of assembly is a fundamental right under Article 19 of the Constitution. Justice Ghosh stated, "It is not in dispute that the right of assembly is a fundamental right of the citizen flowing from Article 19 of the Constitution. Though the application has been made on behalf of a particular political dispensation, the dispensation comprises individuals who are undoubtedly citizens."

The key conditions set by the High Court include:

No provocative speeches are to be made during the yatra.
The number of gatherers must not exceed 1,000 at any location.
Meetings are permitted only between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM across nine specified locations.
Organizers must ensure that no public property is vandalized and no police personnel are harmed.

Background and Government's Stance

The West Bengal government had refused permission for the yatra, arguing that it would be challenging to provide adequate security amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter rolls. However, the High Court directed the state government to deploy sufficient police personnel in line with guidelines for other public meetings and rallies.

Details of the Parivartan Yatra

The BJP's Parivartan Yatra in West Bengal is set to commence in nine divisions and cover approximately 5,000 kilometers. The yatra will culminate in a mega rally at Kolkata's Brigade Parade Grounds. This event is part of the party's broader political campaign in the state.

The court's ruling underscores the balance between upholding constitutional rights and maintaining public order, especially during sensitive periods like voter roll revisions. The decision is expected to have significant implications for political activities in West Bengal as the state prepares for upcoming electoral processes.