Kolkata, India – Calcutta High Court Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay has confirmed his resignation and announced his intention to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and criticized the ruling Trinamool Congress party. Justice Gangopadhyay, known for his involvement in a controversial bribery case, is expected to be fielded by the BJP in the upcoming general elections. Speculation suggests he may contest the Tamluk seat, which has been held by the Trinamool Congress since the 2009 election.
Earlier today, Justice Gangopadhyay officially resigned and mentioned that he had already sent his resignation to the President. While he had planned to hold a press conference, he realized that prohibitory orders were in place banning large gatherings, so he decided to hold it at his home. His decision to join politics came after he received an invitation from Trinamool spokesperson Kunal Ghosh.
Justice Gangopadhyay has been in the spotlight for various reasons, including his involvement in the bribery case and making headlines with his rulings on different matters. One notable incident occurred when he accused Justice Soumen Sen, who led a bench that prevented a CBI probe into college irregularities, of working for a political party. This issue is currently pending in the top court.
In December of last year, Justice Gangopadhyay sparked controversy when he ordered the arrest of a lawyer in the courtroom on contempt charges. The bar association strongly objected and decided to boycott all proceedings involving the judge. The case in question was related to the state’s Madrasah Service Commission.
As Justice Gangopadhyay prepares to enter the political arena, his decision to join the BJP signifies another blow to the Trinamool Congress, which has already faced prominent members defecting to the BJP. With the general elections approaching, his bid for the Tamluk seat will be closely watched as the BJP aims to make further inroads in West Bengal.
It remains to be seen how the Justice’s involvement with the BJP will impact the political landscape in Kolkata and whether his reputation will enhance or hinder his electoral prospects. Nevertheless, his decision to leave the judiciary and join the BJP highlights the increasing intersection between the legal and political realms in India.