The Kolkata High Court on Thursday refused to stay the West Bengal Assembly Speaker's decision to recognise Trinamool Congress (TMC) rebel MLA Ritabrata Banerjee as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the state Assembly. The order came on a petition filed by senior TMC MLA Sobandeb Chattopadhyay, who had challenged Speaker Rathindranath Bose's move.
Background of the Case
The dispute arose after Speaker Bose recognised Ritabrata Banerjee, a rebel TMC legislator, as the LoP, a position traditionally held by the largest opposition party. Chattopadhyay argued that the recognition was illegal and violated Assembly rules, as Banerjee was not a member of any recognised opposition party but an independent rebel.
High Court's Decision
The division bench of the Kolkata High Court, after hearing arguments, declined to intervene at this stage. The court observed that the matter required a detailed hearing and that no interim stay was warranted. It directed the petitioner to approach the appropriate forum for a full hearing.
Reactions from Political Circles
The TMC leadership expressed disappointment over the court's decision, calling it a setback for democratic norms. Meanwhile, Banerjee's supporters welcomed the ruling, stating that it upheld the Speaker's authority.
This is a developing story. More details are awaited.
