Calcutta High Court Grants Conditional Permission for BJP's Nabanna Protest
The Calcutta High Court delivered a significant ruling on Thursday. It permitted Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari and other BJP MLAs to hold a sit-in demonstration near the state secretariat. The court set multiple strict conditions for the protest to proceed peacefully.
Court Imposes Key Restrictions on Protest Activities
Justice Suvra Ghosh's bench outlined specific requirements in its order. The demonstration can take place at Mandirtala bus stand on January 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Participants must follow all conditions without exception.
The court limited the number of MLAs to exactly fifty. No more legislators can join the protest at the designated location. This restriction aims to maintain order during the political gathering.
Protest organizers cannot use any microphones during the event. They gave this undertaking to the court voluntarily. All noise pollution regulations will apply strictly throughout the demonstration period.
Specific Rules Regarding Speech and Infrastructure
The court order explicitly prohibits inciteful speeches and abusive language. Participants must avoid any inflammatory remarks that could disturb public peace. The police will monitor compliance with this condition closely.
If protesters erect a stage, it cannot exceed twelve feet by fifteen feet. This size limitation ensures minimal disruption to the surrounding area. The demonstration must not obstruct public movement or traffic flow in any manner.
Organizers must provide police with names and mobile numbers of at least ten volunteers. These volunteers will bear responsibility for any untoward incidents during the protest. Police authorities will deploy adequate personnel to prevent breaches of peace.
Post-Protest Cleanup and Dispersal Requirements
The court established clear procedures for concluding the demonstration. All participants must disperse within two hours after the protest ends. This requirement prevents prolonged gatherings at the site.
Protest organizers must clean the area thoroughly within twenty-four hours. They need to restore the location to its original condition. This cleanup mandate addresses potential environmental concerns.
Background of the Legal Petition
Suvendu Adhikari and BJP MLAs approached the High Court earlier this week. They sought judicial intervention after police reportedly denied permission for their protest. The proposed demonstration site falls within a highly secured zone near Nabanna.
The protest relates to recent Enforcement Directorate raids at I-PAC offices. BJP leaders allege obstruction by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and government officers during these raids. The court considered these allegations while framing its conditional permission.
Justice Ghosh's bench heard arguments from all parties before issuing the order. The ruling balances protest rights with public order considerations. Both sides presented their positions during the legal proceedings.
