Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has approached the Calcutta High Court with a new petition following another egg pelting incident allegedly orchestrated by political adversaries. This plea was presented before Justice Saugata Bhattacharya, highlighting continued threats despite previous court orders aimed at ensuring her safety.
Previous Court Order on Security Measures
Earlier on September 1, the Calcutta High Court had directed that two police officers be assigned to protect Moitra from any such attacks during her visits to her constituency, Krishnanagar. This decision followed multiple complaints by Moitra regarding harassment by rival political workers, particularly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Recent Developments and Court Proceedings
Despite the protective measures ordered, Moitra’s counsel, Advocate Arka Kumar Nag, reported another egg pelting incident on September 16. In response, Justice Bhattacharya questioned the need for a new petition, having already issued an order. However, Nag emphasized the urgency due to the recent attack, noting that an urgent listing was sought on the same day before a bench led by the Chief Justice.
Justice Bhattacharya refused to expedite the hearing, stating, “You have filed a writ petition, let it come as per presentation form. Sorry, Mr. Nag. Preference cannot be given.” The case is tentatively scheduled for September 22, according to the court’s website.
Ongoing Political Tensions
Moitra has consistently accused BJP workers of resorting to pelting eggs, tomatoes, potatoes, and stones at political opponents since the party assumed power in West Bengal. Her counsel argued these actions disrupt her duties as an MP. The initial court ruling required Moitra to inform authorities 48 hours before visiting her constituency to ensure police protection.
Justice Bhattacharya previously stressed the importance of addressing politically motivated attacks decisively, questioning, “If tomorrow parliament is subjected to egg pelting, what will happen to others who support rival political parties?”
State’s Response and Legal Actions
The State’s Additional Advocate General, Rajdeep Mazumdar, informed the court that a standard operating protocol exists to address such incidents, and Moitra’s complaints have led to an FIR being registered on July 3. Despite these measures, the recent attack on September 16 prompted Moitra to file a new plea.
In a related matter, the Supreme Court had previously remarked that as a politician, Moitra should not fear such attacks, comparing them to the sacrifices made by freedom fighters. The Supreme Court declined her plea for virtual appearances in a hate speech case, suggesting the matter should not have reached the court.
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Public Reaction and Moitra’s Stance
Following the latest attack, Moitra referred to the Supreme Court’s comments in a social media video, expressing her refusal to be intimidated. “The Supreme Court of India told me to go and face some eggs. We were holding an internal meeting, and BJP workers gathered outside with eggs,” she stated, criticizing the police for not dispersing the protesters.
