The Aryavarth Express
Agency(New Delhi): The Bengal BJP is reportedly reconsidering its strategy regarding former Calcutta High Court Judge Abhijit Gangopadhyay, who announced his resignation this week with intentions to join the party and potentially contest in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Gangopadhyay’s resignation, ahead of his retirement due in August, has sparked significant controversy and accusations of impropriety, with critics highlighting his controversial statements and questioning the appropriateness of his swift transition to politics.
Criticism has come from various quarters, including lawyers and political figures, who have questioned Gangopadhyay’s competence and the ethical implications of his move. Supreme Court advocate Sanjay Hegde criticized the lack of a cooling-off period for judges seeking electoral office, a sentiment echoed by many in the legal community. This concern arises amidst a growing trend of judges accepting government positions shortly after retirement, a practice that has included appointments to gubernatorial positions and even nominations to the Rajya Sabha.
Gangopadhyay’s potential candidacy from Tamluk in East Medinipur has been met with internal concerns within the BJP, with some members fearing his outspoken nature might prove to be more of a liability than an asset. Suggestions have been made to leverage his popularity in campaigning roles rather than as a candidate, given his appeal across political spectrums.
The former judge’s tenure at the high court was marked by controversy, including public accusations against other judges and an unprecedented television interview, actions that typically warrant reprimand or transfer in the judicial system. However, Gangopadhyay seemed to enjoy a degree of protection, possibly indicating powerful backing within the central government.
Speculation about his political ambitions and affiliations with the BJP has been rife, with reports suggesting meetings with top BJP leadership months before his resignation. As the BJP contemplates his role in the upcoming elections, Gangopadhyay’s transition from the judiciary to politics continues to stir debate over the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary.