New Delhi, April 9: A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court, demanding immediate directives to ensure the safety of judicial officials, government employees, and citizens amid reports of politically motivated violence and intimidation in West Bengal.
The petition, submitted by Satish Kumar Agarwal, former vice president of the All India Hindu Mahasabha, cites the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction under Article 32 of the Constitution. It alleges a persistent pattern of electoral violence and interference with government officials’ duties in the state over recent years.
The petition requests the central home ministry to take “all necessary steps,” including the deployment of adequate central security forces, to facilitate free, fair, and secure elections in West Bengal. It also urges the state government to maintain law and order during and after the elections.
Referencing past incidents, the petition highlights the violence during the 2013 rural elections, which reportedly resulted in 39 fatalities, with many seats won uncontested due to alleged intimidation tactics.
The petitioner also mentions the 2018 panchayat elections, where approximately 20 people were killed, and opposition candidates were reportedly threatened and coerced into withdrawing their nominations. The petition states, “The recurring incidents of political violence in West Bengal indicate a complete failure of the system to ensure free and fair elections and protect citizens’ fundamental rights.”
Recent events are also noted, including alleged disruptions faced by Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials during searches in Kolkata and Delhi in January this year. Additionally, threats against election officials and government officers in districts like Nadia and Hooghly are highlighted.
The petition references an incident during the “Special Intensive Review” (SIR) campaign in April 2026, where seven judicial officers were reportedly surrounded by a mob for several hours, with police and central forces intervening only after significant delays.
“This situation has created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, making officials feel unable to perform their duties freely and without pressure,” the petition states.
Another incident in Hooghly is mentioned, where government officials monitoring compliance with election regulations faced threats, necessitating the deployment of central forces.
Describing the situation as “serious and alarming,” the petitioner argues that such incidents not only endanger government employees but also undermine the democratic process. The petition asserts, “Failing to ensure the safety of judicial officials and government employees strikes at the very foundation of the rule of law.”
The petitioner contends that the state’s machinery has failed to effectively prevent these incidents, necessitating intervention from the central government and the Supreme Court.
It further states, “Conducting elections in an atmosphere of fear, coercion, and violence is entirely contrary to the constitutional mandate for free and fair elections.”
Among the relief sought, the petition requests the Supreme Court to direct officials to ensure robust security measures, prevent political interference, and take necessary steps to safeguard citizens and officials.
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