Recently, in a decisive move to safeguard institutional integrity during an ongoing electoral process, the Supreme Court directed that all security arrangements provided to judicial officers engaged in West Bengal’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise shall continue until further orders, including deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), making it unequivocally clear that such protection cannot be withdrawn or diluted without prior permission of the Court.
The directions emerged from suo motu proceedings concerning the safety of judicial officers deputed in sensitive election-related duties across West Bengal. During the hearing, the Union, through the Additional Solicitor General, placed on record that the National Investigation Agency had submitted an interim status report outlining progress in the investigation, including technical examination of evidence and further arrests, while affirming that the State authorities were extending full cooperation.
The Court was also apprised of the scale and operational progress of the SIR exercise, with over 60.04 lakh cases already adjudicated under the appellate mechanism and a limited number pending due to technical issues. It was further noted that the appellate tribunal had commenced functioning, marking a significant administrative step in streamlining the process. At the same time, the Bench raised specific concerns regarding the nature of the investigation, seeking clarity on whether any of the arrested individuals had political affiliations, indicating a deeper scrutiny into the surrounding circumstances and potential external influences.
The Division Bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasised that the security of judicial officers performing election duties is of paramount importance and cannot be left vulnerable at any stage. Expressing concern over the effectiveness of the ongoing probe, the Court observed that the investigation must not remain “an academic exercise” but must culminate in a logical and meaningful outcome. It also placed on record its appreciation for the “herculean task” undertaken by judicial officers in executing the SIR exercise under challenging conditions, while expressing confidence in the adherence to due process by senior members of the judiciary involved.
The Court acknowledged the compliance affidavits filed by senior State officials confirming the deployment of adequate security forces, including CAPF, and issued a firm direction that such protection shall continue without interruption and cannot be withdrawn or scaled down without its explicit approval. It further directed the Election Commission of India and the State authorities to maintain a secure and stable environment throughout the electoral process.
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