Calcutta High Court Grants Bail to Student Leader Amid Intense Protests

The Calcutta High Court has granted bail to Sayan Lahiri, leader of Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj, who was arrested for organizing a protest against the alleged rape and murder of a woman doctor. Justice Amrita Sinha noted that Lahiri holds no significant influence and criticized the authorities for their handling of the protests.

The Calcutta High Court on Friday granted bail to Sayan Lahiri, Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj leader, who was claimed to be one of the organizers of a rally to state secretariat Nabanna on August 27. The rally protested the alleged rape and murder of a woman doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital.

Paschim Banga Chhatra Samaj, an unregistered student group, was behind the 'Nabanna Abhijan'. Lahiri was arrested for leading the rally, which allegedly turned violent according to police, causing property damage and attacks on officers.

Justice Amrita Sinha deemed Lahiri an insignificant figure without power or influence, ordering his release on bail to restore public faith in the judiciary. The court restrained police from taking coercive actions against Lahiri without court approval and set deadlines for both parties to respond to the petition.

(With inputs from agencies.)