The Supreme Court, in its suo motu proceedings concerning the safety and security of judicial officers deputed for the West Bengal Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise, directed that all security arrangements provided to such officers shall continue until further orders, including deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
A Bench led by Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi emphasized that security cover must not be withdrawn without prior permission of the Court, particularly in view of the ongoing electoral process in the State.
During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati informed the Court that an interim report had been filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), detailing progress of investigation, including technical examination and further arrests. She also confirmed that the State Government had extended full cooperation in the probe.
Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra, appearing in the matter, echoed that all required cooperation had been provided.
Taking note of the submissions, the Court sought clarity on whether any of the arrested individuals had political affiliations, underscoring that the investigation must not remain “an academic exercise” but reach a logical conclusion.
The Bench also recorded updates regarding the functioning of the appellate mechanism, noting that over 60.04 lakh cases had been adjudicated, with around 2,000 cases pending due to technical issues. It was informed that the appellate tribunal had commenced functioning, with its first operational session beginning on April 13 following an introductory session.
Appreciating the efforts of judicial officers, the Court placed on record its acknowledgment of the “herculean task” undertaken in conducting the SIR exercise. It expressed confidence that former Chief Justices and judges involved in the process would continue to uphold due process.
The Court further noted compliance with its earlier orders dated April 2 and April 6, with affidavits filed by the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police confirming that adequate security arrangements, including CAPF deployment, had been made for judicial officers.
Reiterating the importance of maintaining a secure environment, especially during elections, the Court directed both the Election Commission of India and the State authorities to ensure that security arrangements remain intact and are not diluted without its express approval.