Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya was born on 14th November 1951 in a middle-class Bengali family in Kolkata, West Bengal. His upbringing was deeply influenced by the values of justice, fairness, and integrity. He grew up in a family that valued education and social consciousness. His father, a schoolteacher, and his mother, a homemaker, instilled in him the importance of education and standing up for what is right. Bhattacharya’s early exposure to the social and political issues in Bengal helped shape his strong moral compass.
Bhattacharya’s academic journey began at Hare School, Kolkata, where he completed his schooling with distinction in 1969. His keen interest in law and politics led him to pursue higher education at Presidency College, Kolkata, where he studied Political Science and earned his bachelor’s degree in 1972.
He further pursued law at the University of Calcutta, graduating from the Department of Law in 1975. During his time in law school, Bhattacharya became deeply involved in student politics, which gave him a platform to voice his concerns about the social issues of the time. His political activism and legal acumen were nurtured during these formative years, and he quickly emerged as a promising young leader.
After completing his education, Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya began practicing law at the Calcutta High Court. Unlike many lawyers who sought financial gain, Bhattacharya became known for his willingness to take on cases for those who could not afford legal representation. He believed that justice should be accessible to all, regardless of economic status.
Over the years, Bhattacharya has represented numerous families and individuals without charging any fees. Some of his notable pro bono cases include:
Bhattacharya represented the family of a deceased doctor in their fight for justice against medical negligence. His unwavering commitment to this case without any fees brought attention to the negligence and corruption in the medical system of West Bengal.
Bhattacharya has taken on cases exposing the misuse of power by state officials. His efforts have led to several landmark judgments that have upheld the integrity of the judicial system in West Bengal.
Bhattacharya has fought numerous cases defending farmers' rights against unlawful land acquisitions. His advocacy has protected the livelihoods of countless families from powerful corporations and government encroachments.
Bhattacharya’s political journey runs parallel to his legal career. As a lifelong member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), he has worked tirelessly to promote socialist values. His dedication to the principles of equality, justice, and secularism has made him a respected leader within the party.
One of Bhattacharya’s most significant political achievements was being elected as the Mayor of Kolkata in 2005. As mayor, he implemented several key policies aimed at improving the infrastructure and living conditions in the city. Some of his notable decisions include:
Bhattacharya’s tenure as mayor saw significant efforts to improve the living conditions in Kolkata’s slums. His initiatives included better access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare services for the urban poor.
Under his leadership, Kolkata underwent a transformation with the revitalization of public parks and spaces. His administration focused on creating green zones within the city, ensuring a healthier and more livable urban environment.
Bhattacharya pushed for improvements in Kolkata’s healthcare infrastructure. His focus on public health saw the expansion of government healthcare facilities and increased access to essential services for the economically weaker sections of society.
Bhattacharya’s legal practice continues to be a beacon of hope for those who cannot afford legal representation. His willingness to take up cases without fees is not just a professional choice but a moral one. He believes that justice should not be sold but should be accessible to every citizen, especially the marginalized.
His involvement in the RG Kar Medical College case and his efforts to expose corruption in the West Bengal government are testaments to his commitment to justice. His clients often speak of his dedication and how he has become a symbol of hope for those who have been wronged by the system.
Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya stands as a testament to what a single individual can achieve when driven by a passion for justice and equality. His legal battles, fought often without any personal gain, his contributions as the Mayor of Kolkata, and his unwavering belief in the principles of Marxism have made him a revered figure in both legal and political circles.
His work continues to inspire young lawyers and activists to follow in his footsteps, believing that justice should never be a privilege but a right for all. Bhattacharya’s legacy is far from over, as he continues to fight for the oppressed, proving that one person can indeed make a profound difference in society.
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