Calcutta High Court Asks MP Abhishek Banerjee to Submit List of Judges Allegedly Aligned with Political Parties

The Calcutta High Court has asked Member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee to submit a list naming judges he claims are aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party and those aligned with the Trinamool Congress. Justice Krishna Rao made this remark while hearing a case related to the reduction of Banerjee's security. The state moved the court against Banerjee over his criticism of the judiciary, seeking a criminal contempt case against him. During the hearing, Justice Rao told Banerjee's lawyer that since his client considers himself very smart, he should provide the names and that he would examine them. Additional Advocate General Bilvadal Bhattacharya presented an interview of the petitioner in court, stating that Banerjee criticized judges by name and that criminal action should be taken for contempt.

Security Hearing

Justice Rao heard both sides and kept the verdict on Banerjee's security plea reserved for now. The state argued that reducing Banerjee's security was its administrative decision and it is not bound to disclose reasons. The state also noted that a review of the security will take place at the end of November. Banerjee's lawyer argued that he should continue receiving Z-plus security until that review happens. Meanwhile, the court noted that Banerjee had previously alleged that some judges remain silent spectators and that a section has sold out to the BJP, comparing the handling of his case with other matters.

Context

Courts in India take allegations of judicial bias and contempt of court very seriously, as maintaining the dignity and independence of the judiciary is considered essential for the legal system. When public figures make direct remarks about judges or court proceedings, it often leads to formal legal scrutiny regarding accountability and the limits of free speech.