The Calcutta High Court has ordered that no coercive steps be taken against members of the ‘Jogya Sikkhok-Sikkhika Adhikar Mancha (2016 SLST)’ who were involved in a protest that turned violent near the West Bengal Education Department. The decision came from a bench led by Justice Tirthankar Ghosh.
The court's directive ensures that the police will not arrest or harass the protesting teachers in connection with the incident. It also barred the West Bengal Board of Secondary Education from enforcing any show-cause notices against the protesters.
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The legal proceedings began when Sudip Konar and another petitioner moved the court, represented by Senior Advocate Mr. Sudipto Moitra. The court was informed that the petitioners had already cooperated with the police investigation into Bidhannagar North PS Case No. 57/25.
The State, through an application submitted by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Detective Department, Bidhannagar, expressed concerns about public disturbance caused by the protest. The court addressed these concerns by laying down clear guidelines to maintain peace and allow the right to protest.
Court’s Interim Directions:
"If the agitators wish to continue their protest, it must be done at Central Park, on the side opposite to Bikash Bhawan."
To ensure order and public safety, the court limited the number of protestors at the site:
"Only 200 members may protest at a time on a rotational basis. If additional people arrive, police and protestors must mutually decide who can join."
Recognizing the intense heat and the need for humane treatment of protestors, the court added:
"The administration should try to provide temporary shelters to protect protestors from heat-related health issues."
The municipality was also instructed to provide:
- Drinking water
- Bio-toilets at the protest site
In an effort to streamline communication, the court directed:
"The organization must submit the names of 10 representatives to the Assistant Commissioner of Police, North Bidhannagar, for ongoing dialogue."
Importantly, the court emphasized that no coercive measures should be taken:
"Since there have been no fresh complaints after the 15.05.2025 incident, the police should act slowly regarding all accused, including petitioners. No coercive steps shall be taken until further orders."
The Court also urged both parties to ensure peace and prevent law and order disruption under Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate’s jurisdiction.
Additionally, the court instructed the Board of Secondary Education:
"The Board should not enforce show-cause notices linked to the 15.05.2025 incident."
Case TItle: Case: Sudip Konar & Anr. Versus State of West Bengal & Ors.
Case No: W.P.A. 11422 of 2025
