The Supreme Court on Monday paused the Lok Sabha privileges committee's investigation into the alleged mistreatment of BJP MP Sukanta Majumdar and his supporters during a visit to the violence-hit Sandeshkhali region in West Bengal.

The privileges committee had summoned top West Bengal government officers, including Chief Secretary Bhagwati Prasad Gopalika and Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar, following Majumdar's complaint of breach of privilege. The BJP MP claimed mistreatment, but the situation took a surprising turn as the officers challenged the summons in the Supreme Court.

Chief Justice of India DY Chadrachud, after hearing the arguments, ordered a temporary halt to the parliamentary panel's proceedings and issued a notice to the Lok Sabha secretariat. The top court has sought a reply within four weeks before revisiting the matter.

The legal battle unfolded against the backdrop of political turmoil in Sandeshkhali, where a curfew was imposed under Section 144 CrPC. Despite the restrictions, BJP supporters gathered, leading to clashes with police. Videos presented in court contradicted Majumdar's claims, showing BJP workers allegedly attacking police officials.

The officers' counsel argued that parliamentary privileges do not extend to cover political activities and accused the Lok Sabha secretariat of overstepping its jurisdiction. They contended that notices were issued to officials, including the Chief Secretary and DGP, who were not present at the scene.

The root of the issue lies in the ongoing agitation in Sandeshkhali, where women have been protesting alleged atrocities committed by Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Shajahan Sheikh and his aides. Bengal BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar was injured during clashes between party workers and police personnel when they were prevented from entering the area.