The Calcutta High Court on Monday granted interim protection to Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate from Falta, Jahangir Khan, until May 26, directing that no coercive action be taken against him in five criminal cases until the repoll scheduled for May 21.
Court's Observations and Orders
Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya, while allowing Khan to contest the repoll, emphasized democratic principles. He noted that criminal prosecution was initiated against Khan immediately after the poll result was declared on May 5, which prima facie indicates a change in the political scenario. The court ordered that no coercive steps be taken against Khan in connection with pending criminal prosecutions until May 26, provided he cooperates with the investigating agency. If he fails to cooperate, state authorities are permitted to bring it to the court's notice.
The court clarified that the protection applies only to criminal proceedings already underway against Khan.
Instructions for the Repoll
Justice Bhattacharyya, describing the constituency as sensitive, issued a series of directives for Khan to follow during the repoll: he must not make any provocative speeches; he must adhere to the rules and regulations of the Election Commission (EC); and he must not intimidate or obstruct voters and other stakeholders.
State Authorities' Allegations
State authorities argued that Khan was the mastermind behind voter intimidation, booth capturing, and tampering of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in Falta.
