Murshidabad violence: Supreme Court slams petitioner over irresponsible averments in plea

A top court bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh told advocate Shashank Shekhar Jha, the petitioner, to be responsible in writing averments in a petition.

Justice Kant told Jha as quoted by Live Law, "We should always maintain the integrity and decorum of the institution...Think about what averments are to be made, and what are required to be struck off. Don't seek publicity. Think with a cool mind."

"We respect every citizen who wants to come to us, they are welcome. But with a sense of responsibility. Be careful about what averments are made," he added.

When advocate Jha referred to "media reports" on being asked about the source of information about migration of people to other states due to the violence, Justice Kant was infuriated.

"So you have filed the petition based on media reports! Where is the verification done by you?," fumed Justice Kant.

The court has allowed advocate Jha to file a fresh petition with "better and appropriate particulars" dismissing the previous plea as withdrawn with liberty.

Anti-Waqf violence in Murshidabad

The tension gripped the Muslim-dominated Murshidabad district after three people were killed, railway tracks were blocked, and there was arson and vandalism by the violent protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Act held primarily in Jangipur, Samserganj, Dhuliyan and Suti.

Over 200 people have been arrested in connection with that violence so far.

Attacked by marauding mobs, Hindus from villages fled in boats and via roads to the adjacent district of Malda as Islamic violence claimed three lives and destroyed properties.

The situation was brought under control and the tension was reigned after central forces were deployed as per the directive of the Calcutta High Court in response to Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari's plea.

Videos from ferry ghats showed hordes of Hindu families, including women, children and elderly, fleeing to the safety of the Malda district.