Gherao Of Judges During West Bengal SIR | Supreme Court Asks If Instigators Had Political Background

The Supreme Court on Monday sought to know the political background of the persons who instigated the gherao against seven judicial officers in Malda district on April 1, while they were performing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) adjudication.

Last week, the Court had directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to investigate the FIRs registered by the State Police over the incident, after noting that there were serious allegations against the State Police.

Today, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi that the NIA will continue the investigation.

Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for the West Bengal authorities, submitted that the State Police is extending all cooperation to the NIA. The ASG also confirmed that the State has cooperated.

After referring to the interim report of the NIA, which mentioned the details of arrests made, the CJI said, "In the next phase, we would like to know is there any political background of these persons specified. This is not an academic exercise. Will take it to logical conclusion."

The bench was considering the suo motu case taken over the incidents of April 1, when seven judicial officers were held hostage in Kaliachak village from 3.30 PM till late midnight by a violent mob. After deprecating the conduct of the West Bengal Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, Malda SSP and Collector, the Court had directed the Election Commission of India to requisition central forces for the security of judicial officers performing SIR duties.

Last week, the State had informed the Court that two persons - Mofakerrul Islam and Maulana Muhammad Shahjahan Ali Qadri - were arrested by the local police. The Court had directed them to be transferred to the NIA's custody.

The Court had also censured the West Bengal Chief Secretary, Home Secretary and DGP, for their delay in intervening in the issue before dropping further action against them.

Case : In Re : Safety and Security of Judicial Officers deputed for work relating to SIR of Electoral Rolls in the State of West Bengal and Ancillary Issues | SMW(c) 3/2026