Kolkata – The Calcutta High Court has directed the West Bengal government to provide an undertaking ensuring the relocation of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel from a Chinese language school by April 30.
School’s Petition and Court Response
The Pei Mei Chinese language school in Kolkata initiated legal action seeking the vacation of CISF jawans from their property in Chinatown to allow for the resumption of classes and preparations for the Chinese Latest Year, celebrated on February 17.
Justice Krishna Rao was informed by a court-appointed special officer that eight of the 18 rooms had been handed over to the school for Chinese New Year celebrations.
Current Situation and Concerns
Currently, 130 CISF personnel are housed in the remaining 10 rooms. Counsel representing the Union of India informed the court that this arrangement is causing difficulties, with some personnel reportedly sleeping on verandas.
The lawyer requested that the CISF be allowed to remain in the vacated eight rooms until the state government secures alternative accommodations.
The West Bengal government, represented by Additional Advocate General Amal Kumar Sen, committed to finding alternative accommodations for the CISF personnel by April 30, at which point they will vacate the school premises.
The court has requested a formal affidavit from the state government confirming this undertaking.
Background
The CISF deployment to R G Kar Medical College and Hospital followed a Supreme Court order issued after the rape and murder of a post-graduate trainee on August 9, 2024. The initial request to house personnel at the Pei Mei Chinese School came after the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the CISF move into the school in the first place?
CISF personnel were initially deployed to the Pei Mei Chinese School in September 2024 following a Supreme Court order to provide security at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital after the rape and murder of a post-graduate trainee.
How many rooms are currently occupied by the CISF?
Currently, 130 CISF personnel are housed in 10 rooms at the Pei Mei Chinese School, after eight rooms were handed over for Chinese New Year celebrations.
What is the deadline for the CISF to vacate the school?
The West Bengal government has committed to relocating the CISF personnel and ensuring the school premises are vacated by April 30.
As the Calcutta High Court directs a relocation, what challenges might the West Bengal government face in securing suitable alternative accommodations for the CISF personnel within the given timeframe?
