High Court Restrains WB CM Mamata From Making Derogatory Remarks On Governor

The Calcutta High Court has restrained West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from making any defamatory or incorrect statements against Governor CV Ananda Bose until August 14, when the court will hear the matter again. The court noted that the right to freedom of speech and expression is “not an unfettered right” and cannot be used as a cover for making defamatory remarks to tarnish someone’s reputation.

The order came in response to a defamation suit filed by Governor Bose against Banerjee for her comments alleging that women did not feel safe visiting the Raj Bhavan due to recent allegations of sexual harassment against the governor. The court stated that if an interim order was not granted, it would give the defendants “free hands to continue making defamatory statements” and tarnish the governor’s reputation.

Banerjee’s lawyer, Sanjay Basu, said the order will be challenged before a higher bench. The court has directed the parties to file affidavits within two weeks, and the matter will be heard again on August 14. Governor Bose, in a recorded statement, said “Truth will triumph” and he dedicates himself to the service of the people of Bengal.