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Supreme Court Dismisses West Bengal's Appeal Against Bail of RG Kar Protest Leader Sayan Lahiri

Supreme Court Upholds Bail of RG Kar Protest Leader, Dismisses West Bengal’s Appeal


In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court today dismissed the challenge brought by the State of West Bengal against the bail granted to student leader Sayan Lahiri, involved in the protests over the RG Kar Hospital rape-murder case. The bench, comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, upheld the Calcutta High Court's order that directed the release of Lahiri, who is alleged to be a key figure in organizing the protests under the banner of the 'Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj'.


The protests, which were claimed to be peaceful, escalated into widespread violence, resulting in severe injuries to both protestors and police personnel. The State of West Bengal argued before the Supreme Court that the rally was orchestrated by Lahiri and two others, leading to chaos and injury to 41 police officials stationed at various locations.


Despite the State’s contentions, the Supreme Court focused on whether Lahiri’s bail, granted by the High Court, was justifiable in a petition filed under Article 226 by Lahiri’s mother, Anjali Lahiri. The Court noted that the key issue at hand was the appropriateness of granting bail through a writ petition.


Senior Advocate Sidharth Luthra, representing Anjali Lahiri, contended that the protest's intent was communicated to state authorities, including a warning about potential disruptions by miscreants. He also highlighted that Sayan Lahiri had a change in political affiliations, which may have influenced the FIRs against him.


The protests were sparked by the tragic rape and murder of a postgraduate medical student, which had led to a nationwide outcry. The High Court had earlier transferred the investigation of the incident to the CBI, citing the state's inadequate response.


The Supreme Court's decision to dismiss the appeal reinforces the High Court's stance on the bail, emphasizing the principle of law in bail matters, especially in politically charged cases.


Case Reference:

The State of West Bengal and Ors. vs. Anjali Lahiri and Anr. SLP(Crl) No. 11938/2024.





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