Kolkata: Calcutta High Court on Wednesday directed the state to file a report on “uniform state guidelines on conduct of rallies or demonstrations or protests” over a case by a digital media journalist alleging assault during the July 24 students rally protesting against the NEET paper leak.Jaydip Kar, senior advocate appearing for the petitioner, journalist Shiladitya Kar, had two main prayers — the guideline “where accountability is fixed on the parties calling the meeting”, and seeking protection. It was submitted that he was kept in hospital for two days after being surrounded and assaulted while reporting. His counsel stressed Justice Krishna Rao to record that he is “not against the students or their agitation but only against anti-social elements”.On the steps taken by the state, Additional Advocate General (AAG) Bilwadal Bhattacharya informed Justice Krishna Rao: “The stand of the present govt is to make Kolkata a maximum city. We are taking steps to ensure safety and security of citizens as well as to infuse speed into the city, which is almost a necropolis now. If you (judge) directs, we can come up with a guideline, identify designated spaces in and around where these political meetings will take place, and come up with a mechanism for the people who will be applying.”Justice Rao directed the state to submit the report on existing guidelines, plans, and the status of the investigation on the journalist’s complaint.Advocate Sanjay Basu said the state has been asked to file its reply within three weeks; the HC will hear it again on Aug 25. “We are happy with the state’s response,” he said.
