Kolkata, October 20 (UNI) The Calcutta High Court has allowed the West Bengal government to appoint a retired judge of its choice to head a special commission of inquiry into the Chorbagan stampede, which claimed several lives.
The Chief Justice said a sitting judge could not be assigned to the commission in view of specific Supreme Court guidelines and the acute shortage of judges. The decision modifies the state government's initial request for an inquiry commission headed by a sitting judge to ensure an impartial investigation into the tragedy.
The state government can now select a suitable retired judge to lead the commission, which will examine all aspects of the incident, including the circumstances that led to the stampede and the possible lapses or negligence responsible for the tragedy.
The Chief Justice made it clear that the commission would conduct a detailed investigation into the causes of the accident and establish whether any individuals or authorities were responsible for serious negligence. Given that the inquiry would be headed by an experienced retired judge, the High Court will not directly monitor the investigation at this stage.
However, the court may examine the matter, if necessary, after the commission submits its complete and final report.
UNI SAG AAB
