Sandeshkhali case: Why should state be interested in protecting someone, SC asks Bengal govt

The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a plea filed by the West Bengal government challenging the Calcutta High Court’s order directing a CBI investigation into the allegations of crimes against women and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali.

“Why should the state be interested in protecting someone?” a bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan observed, adding that on the last date of hearing, the counsel appearing for the state said the matter should be adjourned after the apex court asked this specific query.

“Thank you. Dismissed,” the bench said.

The top court was hearing the state government’s plea challenging the Calcutta High Court’s April 10 order. While hearing the plea on April 29, the SC had asked the West Bengal government why the state should come in as a petitioner for “protecting the interest” of some private individuals.