State Directed to Implement Guidelines to Prevent Mob Lynching and Ensure Human Dignity
In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has issued directives to the State of West Bengal to protect accused individuals from public violence and mob lynching. The court emphasized the State's duty to uphold human dignity and prevent acts of inhumanity and barbarity. The judgment was delivered by a division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Partha Sarathi Chatterjee in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Md. Danish Farooqui.
The PIL sought the court's intervention to stop public violence, including the hurling of eggs and other nuisance acts targeting accused persons. The court highlighted that dignity and security are fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution of India, and it is imperative for the State to prevent dehumanizing acts against accused individuals.
The bench directed the Director General of Police, West Bengal, to formulate guidelines to curb public violence and ensure these guidelines are communicated to all police stations across the state for strict compliance. The court also mandated that the State maintain vigilance and take immediate steps upon the occurrence of any such incidents.
The court's decision underscores the constitutional guarantee of human dignity, stressing that these rights are inherent and not privileges subject to the discretion of authorities. The matter has been listed for further consideration on July 20, 2026, by which time the State is expected to file a comprehensive report detailing compliance with the court's directions.
Bottom line:-
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) - Protection of accused persons from public violence, mob lynching, and humiliation - State's duty to ensure human dignity and prevent acts of inhumanity and barbarity.
Statutory provision(s): Articles 14, 19, and 21 of the Constitution of India
Md. Danish Farooqui v. State of West Bengal, (Calcutta)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2933100
