Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay: A Controversial Journey in the Calcutta High Court

The judge made headlines in January when he got into a furious fight with the state Advocate General and accused another High Court judge of “acting on behalf of a political party in the state

Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay’s resignation from the judiciary has stirred discussions, marking the end of a tumultuous tenure in the Calcutta High Court. His decision to step down has raised questions about his future endeavors, hinting at a possible entry into electoral politics.

A Rocky Road: Run-Ins with the TMC Government

Since his appointment as a High Court judge in 2018, Justice Gangopadhyay’s tenure has been marked by clashes with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government. His disregard for orders from larger Benches, controversial interviews with media channels, and directives to the Supreme Court registry have drawn sharp criticism and fueled tensions with the state government.

The Alleged School Jobs Scam

Justice Gangopadhyay’s involvement in investigating the alleged school jobs scam in West Bengal further heightened tensions. His orders to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) to probe the matter led to a series of legal battles and public scrutiny. Despite facing resistance, Justice Gangopadhyay persisted in his pursuit of justice, earning both praise and criticism for his actions.

Confrontations and Controversies

The judge’s confrontation with the TMC government reached its peak when he openly questioned the financial dealings of prominent party members, including TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee. His remarks and actions drew sharp rebukes from political quarters, further complicating his tenure as a High Court judge.

The Path Forward

As Justice Gangopadhyay prepares to step down from his position, his legacy remains a subject of debate and speculation. While his actions have earned him both admirers and detractors, his decision to resign marks the end of a chapter in the Calcutta High Court’s history.

With his departure, Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay of the Calcutta High Court concludes a contentious and confrontational chapter in his career. Despite a turbulent tenure, he has left an enduring impact on West Bengal’s judicial system. The conversation about judicial activity and propriety in the Indian judiciary will continue to be shaped by his legacy even as he sets out on a new path.