'Protect Democracy, Don't Let Agencies Defame Citizens': Mamata Banerjee's Appeal To CJI

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday made a pointed appeal to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant to act as a strong defender of the Constitution and Indian democracy. 

What Did Mamata Say at the Bench Inauguration?

Speaking at the inauguration of the permanent building for the Calcutta High Court’s Jalpaiguri circuit bench, she urged the judiciary to ensure that investigative agencies do not defame ordinary citizens.

Banerjee told the CJI that the judiciary is the ultimate guardian of the Constitution and that "nobody is above you." She also spoke against what she described as "media trials" that she believes are damaging people’s reputations before courts reach verdicts.

"I request the Chief Justice of India and all judges to ensure that our Constitution is protected from disaster and that our democracy is safeguarded. Our safety, security, history, geography, and boundaries must all be protected. Media should not conduct trials before cases are finalised - this has become a trend to malign people. Please ensure that agencies do not deliberately attempt to defame citizens," CM Banerjee said. 

Why Did She Raise These Issues Now?

Her remarks come amid ongoing tensions between the West Bengal government and central investigative agencies, regarding the recent Enforcement Directorate raids that targeted political consultancy I-PAC, which has close ties with her party. 

At the ceremony, Banerjee stressed that her plea was not just about herself. She said she wanted the courts to protect the broader democratic fabric of the countr, its citizens, judiciary and Constitution alike. 

"I am not speaking for myself - I am saying this to save democracy, save people, save judiciary, save the country, and save the Consti-tution. We are under your custody. You are the guardi-ans of the Constitution," CM Banerjee said. 

What Else Was Highlighted at the Event?

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, in his remarks, praised the new Jalpaiguri bench and noted its value in bringing justice closer to people in North Bengal. He pointed out that before the circuit bench was established, residents often had to travel 600 km to Kolkata for High Court work.

"Today it has got its own home. This building is designed as a sophisticated synthesis of tradition and 21st century digital agility and stands as a testimony to judicial decentralisation," the CJI said.

“The apex of our judicial system can only be as strong as the foundation laid at the grassroots level,” he said.

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also spoke at the event, outlining government plans to equip courts with the latest technology as part of a broader push to modernise the justice system. He also emphasised the Centre’s e-court project for which Rs 7,210 crore has been allocated.