Kolkata: Chants of 'Jai Shri Ram', 'chor (thief)', and a few feeble 'Joy Banglas' echoed through the corridors of the Calcutta High Court on Thursday as former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stepped out of the courtroom after arguing a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning post-poll violence.
Arrival and Court Proceedings
Banerjee arrived at the High Court around 10:30 am, dressed in a lawyer's attire. She entered the courtroom and presented her case. However, soon after, crowds began to gather both inside and outside the courtroom. Approximately 15 police officers were rushed in amid the sloganeering.
Confrontation and Reactions
As Banerjee walked out, flanked by former finance minister Chandrima Bhattacharya and senior advocate Kalyan Bandopadhyay, the crowd erupted in slogans. Many advocates and others who had business in the court were caught in the ensuing melee.
Kalyan Bandopadhyay issued a press statement alleging that 'everything that happened at the HC was at (CM) Suvendu Adhikari's direction.' In response, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari told reporters: 'I have a lot of work to do. I don't have the time to worry about such unnecessary things.'
The incident highlights the ongoing political tensions in West Bengal, with post-poll violence remaining a contentious issue. Banerjee's decision to personally argue the PIL underscores the significance she places on the matter.
