Calcutta High Court Considers In-Camera Hearing for Monk's Petition

The Calcutta High Court on Thursday debated the possibility of an in-camera hearing for a petition by Kartik Maharaj, who is challenging an FIR accusing him of rape.

Recognized as Swami Pradiptananda and a recent Padma Shri recipient, Kartik Maharaj denies the allegations dating back to 2013. The monk's lawyer verbally requested the case be heard privately, yet the state government, represented by Advocate General Kishore Dutta, opposed the idea.

Justice Jay Sengupta provided Kartik Maharaj the chance to formally apply for a private hearing, setting a deadline for submission by Friday, with the state's response due by the following Monday.

(With inputs from agencies.)