Supreme Court Orders Probe into Hostage Crisis of Judicial Officers in West Bengal

The Supreme Court issued a sharp rebuke to the West Bengal government following a troubling hostage situation involving seven judicial officers in Malda district. The officials were detained by protesters while conducting a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the electoral rolls, leading the Court to call for a CBI or NIA investigation.

The apex court labeled the state as "most polarised," pointing out administrative failures in securing law and order during the incident. It also urged the Election Commission to ensure the deployment of Central Forces to safeguard judicial efforts in the ongoing electoral operations.

Amidst the political turmoil, West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Election Commission of security lapses while also disputing allegations from political opponents, who suggest her involvement in the disorder. The incident has become a flashpoint in the pre-election landscape of the state.