Meanwhile, the State government blamed the Centre for the violence, arguing that it was them who passed the law, which is encroaching on the rights of around 30 crore people.
Senior Advocate Kalyan Bandyopadhyay said even the Supreme Court has taken the view that certain provisions of the Act must be stayed, while the challenge is heard by the apex court.
“If the central government passes a law and there is an agitation, I am not responsible. Responsibility has to be taken by the Central government, not me. Did I pass the law? See what the Chief Justice [of India] has said. A very drastic law has been passed. This law is encroaching on almost 30 crore people of this country,” he stated.
He added that the PILs are for political reasons and also criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
“Today entire thing is against the Central government, and Central government officers will come and stop them [rioters]? Central government officers will come and fire? I am responsible for the people of this state. I am the elected government. Who will take the responsibility? Home Minister Amit Shah will take the responsibility, or the Prime Minister will take the responsibility?”
Bandyopadhyay also targeted Adhikari.
“The stone pelting culture came to West Bengal when he [Adhikari] became the leader of the opposition. In this State, the stone pelting culture has been brought by petitioner number 1 [Adhikari.”
The senior lawyer added that the State has filed FIRs, arrested several people of both religions, and the law and order situation is being brought under control.
He added that the other petitioner, advocate Tarun Jyoti, has been spreading rumours and videos which may promote violence.
