'Govt Held Accountable By A Free Press': Calcutta High Court Grants Bail To Republic TV Journalist Arrested In Sandeshkhali

The Calcutta High Court on Thursday granted bail to journalist Santu Pan, who was arrested while reporting live from Sandeshkhali, in West Bengal for Republic TV on 19th February.

According to reports, the state authorities had alleged that the journalist was arrested for outraging the modesty of a woman by entering her home while reporting. These charges were however denied by the journalist, who claimed that his arrest came since he was 'exposing the truth' in Sandeshkhali. 

The bail was granted by a single bench of Justice Kaushik Chanda. Republic TV has hailed the decision of the Court as a 'vindication' on their official YouTube channel.

In acknowledging the situation at Sandeshkhali and upholding the freedom of press as the 'fourth pillar' of democracy, the bench held:

In the current situation in Sandeshkhali, the freedom of the press is crucial as it serves as the fourth pillar, alongside the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. This pillar must be allowed to function freely and independently, without any fear of reprisal or intimidation. It is through a free press that the public is informed and empowered, and that the government is held accountable.

Notably, Sandeshkhali has been a hotbed of unrest ever since a team of ED officers was attacked when they were on their way to raid the residence of local leader Shahjahan Sheikh in connection with the multi-crore ration scam.

Live Law has reported on the suo moto action initiated by the Calcutta High Court on reports of women being allegedly sexually assaulted at gunpoint by local political leaders, as well as tribal lands being grabbed by political strongmen.

A division bench led by Chief Justice Sivagnanam has taken cognizance of events in the area and expressed dismay at the lack of effort shown by the State police in arresting the 'sole cause of the problem' Shahjahan Sheikh.

Earlier, a single bench of the High Court had also stayed the S.144 CrPC order imposed in the area, in order to alleviate the 'heart-wrenching atrocities suffered by the people.'

Notably, LoP Suvendu Adhikari had sought and received conditional permission from the High Court to interact with the people of the violence-stricken areas. 

Order to be uploaded shortly.

Case: SANTU PAN v STATE OF WEST BENGAL AND ORS

Case No: WPA/4742/2024

Citation: 2024 LiveLaw (Cal) 50

Click here to read order