Calcutta HC demands report from State Govt on attack at ex-BJP MP Arjun Singh's residence

The Calcutta High Court has issued a significant order requiring the West Bengal government to submit a detailed report regarding the bomb attack on former BJP MP Arjun Singh's residence in Bhatpara, which occurred on October 4, 2024. Justice Shampa Dutt Pal, presiding over the vacation bench, emphasized the necessity for the state to clarify whether it has communicated a report about the incident to the central government. This directive aims to facilitate transparency and accountability in the ongoing investigation into the attack, raising questions about the adequacy of local law enforcement's response.

During the hearing, the court heard a request for the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to take over the investigation. The police have initiated a case under the Explosive Substances Act, which allows for the investigation of crimes involving explosives. However, there are allegations from various quarters that the severity of the incident warranted an investigation under the more stringent provisions of the Explosive Substances Act. The central government informed the court that it could consider an NIA investigation only after the West Bengal government formally reports the incident, indicating a level of cooperation between state and central authorities in matters of public safety.

Justice Dutt Pal questioned the state’s legal counsel about whether a report regarding the bomb blast had been submitted to the Centre in accordance with Section 6 of the NIA Act, which governs the circumstances under which the NIA may be involved in investigations. The court mandated that the state must provide a comprehensive report in the next hearing, which is scheduled to take place after the holiday period. Moreover, the court directed the preservation of all CCTV footage captured around Singh's residence at the time of the attack, which could be vital for corroborating witness testimonies and establishing a timeline of events.

Arjun Singh has publicly alleged that the attack was orchestrated by supporters of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), claiming that more than 25 bombs were thrown at his home in the presence of police officers who were stationed nearby. He specifically identified the son of a local councilor and 15 to 20 other individuals as being involved in the attack. Singh had previously approached the High Court, seeking an NIA investigation due to the political implications of the attack and its potential impact on the safety of political figures in West Bengal.