The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, issued a directive to the West Bengal government on Monday, mandating immediate provision of accommodation and necessary security equipment for Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel stationed at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata. The court’s order emphasizes a swift resolution, requiring the state to fulfill these requirements by this evening.
The bench has appointed a senior officer from the state’s home department and a top CISF officer to collaborate and ensure that the CISF’s three companies are adequately housed and equipped. Currently, one company has been placed at various locations including RMA Quarters, a Kolkata Municipal Corporation School, and Indira Matri Sadan, with transport arrangements of six buses, four trucks, and three light motor vehicles already made.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, highlighted the inadequate living conditions for the CISF personnel, including women, which he deemed insufficient. In contrast, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, asserted that all requested facilities had been provided, noting that most personnel were accommodated on the hospital premises.
The matter escalated to the Supreme Court following a complaint by the Centre on September 3, accusing the West Bengal government of “unpardonable” non-cooperation in providing logistical support to the CISF, crucial for ensuring the security of the hospital environment. This included a critical need for proper accommodation and security infrastructure for the CISF personnel, who are crucial in maintaining order and safety at the hospital, especially in the hostels where resident doctors reside.
The Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier reached out to the chief secretary of West Bengal with a formal request on September 2, seeking adequate logistical arrangements and security provisions necessary for the CISF. However, the Supreme Court noted the state’s lack of response to these requests, prompting the judiciary’s intervention.
