NIA moves Calcutta HC challenging bail granted to 15 accused in Beldanga case

The National Investigation Agency has approached the Calcutta High Court challenging the bail granted to 15 accused in the Beldanga violence case by a special NIA court. The lower court had granted conditional bail on a bond of ₹10,000 each, but the central agency has contested the decision, arguing that it was inappropriate given the ongoing investigation. The matter has been placed before a bench comprising Justice Arijit Banerjee and Justice Apurba Sinha Ray, and is expected to be heard soon.

The agency has contended that bail was granted despite alleged non-compliance with Supreme Court guidelines. As per legal provisions, a chargesheet must be filed within a stipulated time. However, even after 90 days, the NIA failed to submit a final chargesheet or conclusive investigation report and was unable to provide satisfactory updates on the progress of the probe before the court. In this situation, defence lawyers moved for bail, which was subsequently granted with conditions on the movement of the accused.

In its plea before the High Court, the NIA has argued that granting bail at this stage could affect the investigation. The court has directed that a detailed report on the status of the probe be submitted for review. The outcome of this assessment will determine whether the lower court’s order will stand or whether the agency will regain custody of the accused. There is also a possibility that stringent provisions, including those under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, may be reconsidered based on the findings.

The case originates from violence that broke out in Beldanga in Murshidabad district in January following reports of the death of a migrant worker in Jharkhand. The incident triggered widespread protests, during which railway tracks and national highways were blocked, and instances of vandalism were reported. Media personnel were also allegedly attacked during the unrest, prompting heavy police deployment to bring the situation under control.

Following the escalation, the High Court had handed over the investigation to the NIA. A total of 35 individuals were arrested in connection with the case, of whom 15 have been granted bail while the remaining 20 continue to be in judicial custody. With the legal battle now shifting to the High Court, the case remains under close watch as it carries significant implications for both the investigation and the accused.