Calcutta HC Upholds TMC Rebel Leader’s Position, Telegram Under Scrutiny, Shiv Sena MPs Skip Key Meeting

The Calcutta High Court has dismissed a request for interim relief concerning the West Bengal Assembly Speaker’s decision to recognize Ritabrata Banerjee, an expelled Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA, as the Leader of Opposition. This ruling follows a petition filed by fellow TMC leader Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, who contended that Speaker Rathindra Bose disregarded the party’s official decision to appoint him as the Leader of Opposition. The court has scheduled further discussions on the matter for July 28.

In a separate but significant development, the Union government has presented claims to the Delhi High Court that the messaging platform Telegram is becoming akin to a “dark web,” facilitating illegal activities and fostering connections among criminals. This assertion was made in an affidavit opposing Telegram’s petition, which contests an order that limits access to its services in India until June 22. This restriction has been imposed in light of the upcoming NEET-UG re-examinations for medical college admissions. The High Court has sought clarification from the government regarding the scope and nature of the alleged unlawful activities occurring on Telegram, while the bench has reserved its decision on the matter.

Amid these legal developments, the political landscape in Maharashtra is showing signs of turbulence within the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction. Six out of the nine Lok Sabha MPs representing this faction have notably absented themselves from a crucial parliamentary party meeting, raising suspicions of a potential shift in allegiance towards the rival faction led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The meeting witnessed participation from the remaining three MPs of the Uddhav Sena, alongside the party’s sole Rajya Sabha member, who were observed discussing the party’s future amidst growing speculation about internal dissent.

This trio of stories reflects the current dynamic in Indian politics, where legal challenges and party loyalties are under scrutiny. As the Calcutta High Court deliberates the legitimacy of leadership claims within the TMC, the government’s concerns over Telegram’s role in illegal activities could set precedents affecting digital communication platforms in India. Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena’s internal rifts may reshape its political strength in Maharashtra, highlighting the ongoing volatility within regional parties.

Source: scroll.in