In a significant legal development amid escalating political tensions in West Bengal, TMC’s General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Thursday secured interim relief from the Calcutta High Court in connection with a criminal case registered against him at the Bidhannagar Cyber Crime Police Station.
Hearing the matter, the High Court directed that the state police shall not take any coercive or punitive action against the TMC leader until further orders. The court also observed that, at this stage, custodial interrogation of the Diamond Harbour MP is not necessary. This protection will remain in effect until July 31.
The FIR against Banerjee had triggered apprehensions of imminent arrest, particularly against the backdrop of shifting political dynamics in the state. In response, his legal team moved the High Court earlier this week, seeking anticipatory bail and protection from arrest.
During the proceedings, the presiding judge underscored that the investigation must continue in accordance with the law, emphasising the need to ascertain the truth. However, the Court maintained that the petitioner should not face arrest or harassment while the probe is ongoing.
While granting relief, the Court imposed a set of strict conditions. Banerjee has been directed to fully cooperate with the investigation and must respond promptly to any summons issued by the Investigating Officer. If any prior notices have already been served, he or his legal representatives are required to furnish appropriate replies within the stipulated timeframe.
Additionally, the Court has barred him from leaving the state or the country without prior permission. It also clarified that any failure to comply with these conditions could prompt the police to approach the court for revocation of the protection granted.
The development comes amid an ongoing controversy surrounding demolition notices issued by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation for several properties, including Banerjee’s “Leaps and Bounds.” Political observers note that, following recent changes in the state’s power structure, multiple cases involving leaders of the TMC are being revisited.
The FIR against Banerjee and his subsequent legal recourse have intensified the political and legal discourse in the state, drawing significant attention from both ruling and opposition camps.
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