Calcutta High Court has faced criticism for refusing to grant an urgent hearing of a plea concerning the upcoming West Bengal Panchayat elections. The Court's response drew strong reactions as it highlighted the stark contrast between those participating in the electoral process and individuals who are struggling to meet their basic needs.

During the proceedings, the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court, TS Sivagnanam, expressed his frustration when a lawyer sought the Court's indulgence to hear the case immediately. The Chief Justice remarked that while some individuals have the luxury of engaging in elections, many others are suffering and even dying due to the lack of access to jobs, food, and shelter.

The lawyer argued that the panchayat elections were crucial for ensuring food and shelter for the people, but the Chief Justice maintained that there were numerous pending cases and people in desperate situations who were also seeking justice. The Court emphasized that it would not entertain an out-of-turn hearing and criticized the lawyer for attempting to jump the queue.

The lawyer mentioned that there had been an understanding that the matter would be heard promptly, but the Court responded by suggesting that the case should be taken elsewhere if there was an assumption of preferential treatment. The Chief Justice emphasized that there were limits to such demands and urged the lawyer to consider the plight of those in need.

The lawyer also informed the Court about a potential threat to peace during the nomination filing process, requesting the Court to direct the Director General of Police to ensure security. However, the Court stated that a formal petition needed to be filed to initiate action and that it could not act solely on the basis of a letter.

This development comes after a previous order by the Calcutta High Court, directing the State Election Commission to requisition central forces for overseeing the conduct of the Panchayat polls, was upheld by the Supreme Court. Two contempt petitions have reportedly been filed in the High Court, alleging non-compliance with the earlier order.

The Calcutta High Court's refusal to prioritize the urgent hearing of the plea on West Bengal Panchayat elections has sparked national debate and criticism. The incident has shed light on the growing concerns over the worsening socioeconomic conditions faced by many individuals in the region, including unemployment, food scarcity, and homelessness. It has prompted discussions on the role of the judiciary in addressing these pressing issues and balancing them with other matters of importance.