Calcutta HC PIL seeks probe into Hogg Market demolition and police role

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Calcutta High Court over allegations of vandalism and demolition carried out using bulldozers near Kolkata’s historic Hogg Market following the West Bengal Assembly election results. The matter is likely to come up for hearing on Friday. The petition seeks an investigation into the incident as well as action against police personnel who were allegedly present during the vandalism.

The unrest was reported from the New Market area during a BJP victory procession held after the declaration of Assembly election results on May 4. According to police sources, permission had been granted for the rally, but no approval was given for the use of bulldozers as part of the procession. Allegations later emerged that temporary structures near Hogg Market were vandalised and that a Trinamool Congress office in the area was also damaged during the incident.

The petitioner has alleged that the demolition activities continued in the presence of police officials and has requested court intervention into the role of the officers deployed at the spot. The PIL has also sought judicial attention regarding similar incidents of alleged post-poll vandalism reported from different parts of the state. The petition specifically calls for investigation and accountability in connection with the violence and property damage.

Police have already initiated legal action in the case. Four people were arrested on Wednesday evening in connection with the vandalism incident, following which New Market police station arrested four more individuals. Police and central forces had rushed to the area after reports of tension and vandalism emerged late Tuesday night.

Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nanda addressed a press conference at Lalbazar on Wednesday and stated that no rally involving bulldozers or JCB machines would be permitted. He also said legal action had been initiated against owners who rented out bulldozers for such activities. Authorities further clarified that prior permission would be mandatory for all victory processions in the city.