Mothabari incident: NIA submits 25-page report to SC, Nabanna on edge over directives

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has reached a critical stage in probing the Mothabari incident in Malda district. Following the attack on judicial officers on Wednesday night, NIA compiled a 25-page report examining the events before, during, and after the incident. The report, now in Delhi, is scheduled to be submitted to the Supreme Court on Monday for review.

The NIA report contains detailed statements from the affected judicial officers, testimonies from 22 booth-level officers, local police accounts, and eyewitness observations. Investigators have highlighted inconsistencies and potential lapses in the handling of the situation, providing a comprehensive account of the severity of the attack and the administration’s response.

Officials in West Bengal’s administrative headquarters, Nabanna, are reportedly anxious over the Supreme Court’s scrutiny. The Chief Secretary, DG of Police, district SPs, and DMs had already been show-caused by the apex court for the handling of the incident. There is concern that the court may issue strict directives or take disciplinary action against the state administration.

The Supreme Court had earlier expressed strong displeasure over the attack on judicial officers, with Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasizing the importance of protecting the judiciary and public safety. The court had also indicated that central forces could be directed to step in if required and that perpetrators may face exemplary punishment.

The Mothabari incident began when judicial officers went to the Kaliyachak area to review voter lists under the Special Summary Revision (SIR) process. Despite police and central force presence, officers were attacked, vehicles damaged, and the situation escalated. Videos and eyewitness accounts confirmed the unrest, prompting NIA investigation and central review, now pending Supreme Court directions.