Bidhan Parui and Anr. v. State of West Bengal and Ors.
Case brief
What is this about?
Calcutta High Court, W.P.A. (P) 83 of 2026, decided 09.03.2026 by Sujoy Paul, CJ. (with Partha Sarathi Sen, J.). PIL by Bidhan Parui & Anr. seeking mandamus for FIR registration or CBI investigation was disposed of at admission stage: writ of mandamus cannot compel FIR registration or dictate investigation; petitioners never approached the police station; remedy is to approach the SP if the SHO does not register the FIR, and generally to pursue criminal-law remedies (Magistrate under S.156(3) Cr.P.C. rather than Article 226 writ route, per cited Supreme Court authority). Key precedents: Sudhir Bhaskarrao Tambe (2016) 6 SCC 277; Sakiri Vasu (2008) 2 SCC 409; Aloke Kr. Ghosh, MAT 1961 of 2023 (25.02.2026); Sourav Mitra, 2025 SCC OnLine Cal 9425. Themes: FIR non-registration, writ of mandamus, PIL, CBI investigation, police remedies.
What did the court decide?
None; the petition was disposed of with the petitioners left at liberty to pursue their remedies under the criminal law.