Calcutta HC says inquiry commission headed by retired judge be appointed into Chorbagan stampede

The tragic stampede that occurred in the Chorbagan area of Kolkata last month left dozens injured and several fatalities, prompting widespread calls for an independent investigation. The incident happened during a crowded public event, and eyewitnesses reported that inadequate crowd control and poor venue management contributed to the panic. Families of the victims have demanded swift justice, while human rights groups have warned that without a transparent inquiry, similar tragedies could recur. The state government initially proposed that a sitting judge lead the probe, citing the need for legal expertise.

In a recent hearing, a division bench of the Calcutta High Court, headed by Chief Justice Ravindra V. Ghuge, ruled that a sitting judge cannot head the inquiry, citing a Supreme Court directive that mandates an independent panel free from potential conflicts of interest. The bench rejected the state’s proposal, emphasizing that the credibility of the investigation depends on its impartiality and the public’s trust. The court ordered the government to appoint a retired judge to chair the commission, ensuring that the probe remains insulated from current judicial responsibilities.

The ruling is significant for readers across India because it reinforces the principle that investigations into public tragedies must be free from any appearance of bias, a standard that strengthens democratic accountability. By insisting on a retired judge, the court aims to restore confidence among the victims’ families and the broader public, potentially preventing further erosion of trust in state institutions. Legal analysts will be monitoring how quickly the government complies and whether the appointed commission can deliver a thorough report before the next election cycle.