Ex-Serviceman Seeks High Court Approval for Protest Against Mamata's Remarks on Indian Army

A former Army officer has petitioned the Calcutta High Court, requesting authorization to stage a dharna at Mayo Road on September 8. This protest is in response to recent remarks made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee about the Indian Army.

The petitioner's approach to the court followed a denial from Kolkata Police to hold the demonstration. Justice Tirthankar Ghosh has permitted the filing of the plea, and a hearing is scheduled for Monday.

The petition claims that Banerjee's statements have "insulted and hurt" the sentiments of the Indian Army. This controversy arose earlier in the week when Banerjee accused the Central government of "misusing" the Army to dismantle a protest stage set up by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) at Kolkata’s Maidan.

Banerjee asserted: “We are proud of the Army, but if they are misused to dismantle a political party’s stage, decorations, and microphones, it is unacceptable. The BJP is misusing government forces… This is not the Army, this is the BJP acting as a ‘chhupa rustam.’”

Army’s Clarification

The Indian Army responded with a statement explaining that permission for the TMC protest was initially granted for only two days, adhering to Supreme Court guidelines. According to these guidelines, the Local Military Authority can authorize events in the Maidan area for up to two days, while longer events need approval from the Ministry of Defence.

The Army further stated that despite “repeated reminders,” the organizers continued the protest for nearly a month, leaving them no choice but to inform Kolkata Police and proceed with dismantling the stage.

Political Tensions

The situation has ignited intense political debate between the TMC and the BJP. Banerjee has accused the Central government of showing disrespect towards Kolkata Police, while ex-servicemen and veterans have expressed concerns over what they see as "unwarranted criticism" of the Army.

As the High Court prepares to hear the case, the dispute is likely to intensify, adding a new layer to the ongoing conflict between the state government and the Centre.