Supreme Court Criticizes West Bengal's Chief Secretary Over Malda Incident

In a recent Supreme Court hearing, the Chief Secretary of West Bengal faced severe criticism for failing to respond during a hostage situation involving judicial officers. The court highlighted the administrative failures that allowed the incident to escalate and ordered the National Investigation Agency to take over the investigation. The Chief Justice emphasized the need for accountability and communication within the state's bureaucracy, questioning the lack of response from officials during a critical time. This incident raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of civil administration and police in West Bengal.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 7, 2026, 13:10 IST

Supreme Court's Stern Warning to West Bengal Officials

During a hearing regarding the Malda incident in West Bengal, the Supreme Court expressed strong disapproval towards the state's Chief Secretary. The court highlighted that the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court was unable to reach the Chief Secretary on the day of the incident, indicating a significant administrative failure. The court questioned, 'Are you unable to answer the Chief Justice's call?' and demanded an apology from the Chief Secretary. This case pertains to an incident on April 1, where seven judicial officers were held hostage for hours during Special Intensive Revision (SIR) duty in Kaliaganj, Malda. The Supreme Court deemed the situation extremely serious and assigned the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Judicial Officers Held Hostage

Justice Bagchi remarked that the Chief Secretary should have shared their mobile number to facilitate communication with the Chief Justice and the High Court administration. When the Chief Secretary claimed their number was available, Justice Bagchi retorted that one should not hold such a high position that the Chief Justice cannot reach them. The Chief Justice instructed both the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP) to formally apologize to the Chief Justice of the High Court. The court emphasized the need for an apology, stating that the failure of civil administration and police officials forced them to empower judicial officers. The bench noted that despite numerous attempts to contact the Chief Secretary, there was no response while seven judicial officers were being held hostage. The Chief Justice commented on the bureaucratic inefficiency, stating, 'This is how the bureaucracy operates! Chaos prevails in this state.'

Seriousness of the Situation

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the Chief Justice noted that the incident began around 3:30 PM, but he was only informed at 11:30 PM. He questioned what could have transpired in that time frame, allowing thousands to gather and continue gathering. Justice Bagchi further stated that intervention from the Chief Justice of India was necessary to prevent more severe consequences. The court also scrutinized the police's actions at the scene, referencing statements regarding the presence of the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police. Justice Bagchi pointed out that when the registry contacted the SP, they were merely observing. The SP remarked, 'What can I do? There are women present—if we take action, we might harm them.'

NIA to Interrogate Arrested Suspects

The court ordered that the arrested suspects would now be interrogated by the NIA, and their custody was to be handed over to the agency. The state police were instructed to provide all case diaries, investigation documents, and necessary logistical support to the NIA. The case was taken cognizance of based on a letter from the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court.