Kolkata, 28 April (H.S.): A fresh controversy has erupted in West Bengal over the publication of a list of 350 alleged “trouble-makers” by the Election Commission of India. Trinamool Congress MP and senior lawyer Kalyan Banerjee has approached the Calcutta High Court, accusing the Commission of contempt of court.

The matter was heard on Tuesday by a division bench comprising Justice Arijit Banerjee and Justice Parthasarathi Sen. During the hearing, Banerjee alleged that the Commission and police observers were specifically targeting the Bhabanipur constituency and creating an atmosphere of fear among candidates and voters. He also claimed that the Officer-in-Charge of Kalighat Police Station misbehaved with him.

Banerjee urged the court to ensure that no individuals are summoned or subjected to such actions until polling day on April 29. He also requested that similar notifications not be issued in the future. After hearing arguments from all sides, the division bench reserved its order.

Earlier, in a related case concerning the publication of “trouble-maker” lists, the High Court had observed that authorities should not show excessive proactiveness unless there is evidence of unlawful activity. Following that direction, a previous list of around 800 individuals issued by the Commission had been withdrawn. However, the recent release of a fresh list of 350 names has reignited the dispute.

During the hearing, the Election Commission informed the court that the notification had already been withdrawn. In response, Banerjee questioned whether merely withdrawing the notification reflected any real change in the Commission’s approach. He reiterated that Bhabanipur was being unfairly targeted.

Justice Parthasarathi Sen asked Banerjee what relief he now sought, given that the notification had been withdrawn. Banerjee responded by raising concerns over an alleged climate of fear created by the police, questioning whether voters could exercise their franchise freely under such conditions. He also alleged misconduct by police officials and claimed that central forces were being used to intimidate people.

Banerjee further criticized police observer Ajay Pal Sharma, saying his conduct and remarks were not appropriate in an election environment. He also alleged that officers from BJP-ruled states were being brought in to influence the electoral process. Additionally, he raised questions over the alleged attack on TMC MP Mitali Bag and sought clarity on the standard operating procedures being followed by the Commission and observers.

On the other hand, appearing for the Election Commission, advocate Jishnu Chowdhury argued that the court had not barred the Commission from taking lawful action. He stated that there were multiple complaints against individuals named in the list and that these could be presented before the court if required.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey