Overview
- The bench told the state to deploy and fully use CAPF/BSF in Beldanga until 100% normalcy, with scope to add more companies if needed.
- The district magistrate and superintendent of police must file affidavits within 15 days accepting responsibility for protecting lives and property.
- Reports differ on the probe pathway, with two accounts saying the Centre is at liberty to order an NIA investigation and another saying the court will decide after reviewing a state report.
- Violence on January 16 saw rail and NH-12 blockades over a Beldanga resident’s killing in Jharkhand, leaving at least 12 injured, leading to around 30 arrests, and including assaults on journalists.
- In court, the state said arrests were made and calm prevailed, while BJP and TMC exchanged blame over the causes and handling of the unrest.