Kolkata: In a significant political development in West Bengal, the Calcutta High Court on Thursday disqualified senior leader Mukul Roy from the West Bengal Legislative Assembly under the anti-defection law. The court’s decision follows a petition challenging Roy’s eligibility as a legislator, citing his defection from the party under whose banner he was originally elected.

Mukul Roy, a veteran politician with a long-standing career in West Bengal politics, has been a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape, holding key positions in both government and party hierarchies. The court’s ruling underscores the stringent application of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India, which bars elected representatives from switching parties after being elected, to maintain political stability and prevent opportunistic defections.

While specific details of the judgment are yet to be released, sources indicate that the disqualification stems from Roy’s decision to join another political party during his term, which the petitioners argued violated the anti-defection provisions. The ruling will have immediate implications for the composition of the state assembly, potentially impacting the strength and strategies of political parties in West Bengal.

The Calcutta High Court’s verdict adds to the ongoing scrutiny of legislators’ adherence to constitutional mandates regarding party affiliation, a measure aimed at curbing political instability and ensuring accountability of elected representatives. The disqualification of a senior leader like Mukul Roy is expected to trigger discussions within political circles and may influence electoral strategies in the state going forward.

This decision also signals the judiciary’s proactive role in enforcing the anti-defection law, reinforcing the legal and ethical standards expected from legislators in India. The implications of this ruling will be closely watched by both the political establishment and the electorate in West Bengal.