Approach the central forces if the State Police is unable to control the protest - Calcutta HC in Prophet Muhammad Remark Case

BENCH: A bench of Chief Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Justice Rajarshi Bharadwaj of the Calcutta High Court

The Calcutta HC said that the West Bengal government should approach the central forces if the State Police is unable to control the violence that has erupted due to the recent remarks made by the BJP spokesperson against Prophet Muhammad. The bench asked the State to collect the video footage of violence so that the miscreants can be held responsible.

The Court was hearing a list of petitions filed by different individuals seeking relief. One of the pleas alleged that the police were standing as mute spectators while BJP party offices were being burnt. In another petition, the petition sought to recognise each person responsible for road blocking Highway in the Howrah Ankurhati area. Another petition took a contrary stand and sought to allow peaceful processions. 

Advocate General SN Mookherjee appearing for the State informed the Court that the protest is being held in the States of UP, Rajasthan, Delhi, MP, etc. The authorities have registered 27 FIRs, arrested 240 persons, passed prohibitory orders, and suspended internet services in many areas. 

The Advocate General requested an adjournment to file a report in the form of an affidavit describing the current situation in the State as well as the steps taken by the State authorities to control it.

The bench, while allowing the same directed the State authorities to ensure that no untoward incident takes place.