New Delhi/IBNS, April 6 -- The Supreme Court on Monday strongly criticised West Bengal's top administrative officials over their handling of the Malda incident, where judicial officers were allegedly held hostage for hours during an ongoing electoral process.

The bench expressed concern over the lack of response from senior officials when the situation escalated.

"What's the problem, Mr Chief Secretary? You don't even take the call of the Chief Justice?" the Chief Justice of India remarked, questioning the accessibility of the state's top bureaucrat.

Appearing via video conference, the Chief Secretary stated that he was in Delhi for official work and did not receive any calls.

However, the bench questioned this explanation and highlig...