HC seeks Centre’s role, threatens central force deployment over illegal structures in East Kolkata

The Calcutta High Court on Monday expressed strong displeasure over the handling of illegal constructions in the East Kolkata wetlands and warned that central forces may be deployed if the state fails to act. Justice Amrita Sinha directed that the Ministry of Home Affairs be made a party in the case, observing that assistance from the Centre would be sought if the demolition of unlawful structures is not carried out effectively.

The matter relates to a petition alleging that more than 500 illegal constructions have come up in the East Kolkata wetlands after the alleged illegal filling of water bodies. The court had earlier ordered the Kolkata Municipal Corporation to demolish such structures with police assistance. During previous hearings, the role of the state administration had also come under scrutiny.

However, the court noted that its earlier directions had not been implemented in letter and spirit. Justice Sinha remarked that instead of visible action on the ground, only reports were being filed. “In reality, no work is being done. Yet, one report after another is being submitted. I do not want to see more reports. I want to see whether work has been carried out in accordance with the court’s order,” she observed while reviewing a status report submitted by the District Magistrate of South 24 Parganas.

Local authorities cited procedural and logistical hurdles in carrying out demolitions. The East Kolkata Wetlands Authority informed the court that electricity connections needed to be disconnected before action could proceed. Officials also reported resistance in certain areas, including Chowbaga, which allegedly obstructed demolition efforts.

Expressing dissatisfaction, Justice Sinha stated that repeated orders had not translated into enforcement. “If the state cannot implement the court’s order to demolish the illegal constructions, assistance will be sought from the Centre. If required, central forces will be deployed and all illegal constructions will be demolished,” she said. The next hearing in the matter has been scheduled for March 16.