Fresh FIR against Abhishek Banerjee in Kolkata; summoned for Nov 20 questioning
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A fresh First Information Report (FIR) was registered on Friday, 13 November against All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) National General Secretary and Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha MP Abhishek Banerjee at the Girish Park Police Station in North Kolkata, accusing him of making derogatory remarks and issuing threats against a serving Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. A notice directing him to appear for questioning by 12 noon on 20 November was served at his residence late Friday evening.
What the FIR Alleges
According to police sources, the case was lodged on the basis of a complaint filed by a local woman, who alleged that Abhishek Banerjee — nephew of West Bengal's former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee — had obstructed police functioning by threatening and making derogatory comments against a serving IPS officer and other state police personnel. The complaint was filed at Girish Park Police Station, and officers served the summons at Banerjee's residence the same evening.
The Remarks That Triggered the Case
The controversy reportedly stems from comments Abhishek Banerjee made during a public interaction — captured on camera last month — in which he warned that the names of allegedly biased police officers were being noted and that action would be taken against them in the future. He also allegedly made personal remarks directed at West Midnapore Superintendent of Police Papia Sultana, without explicitly naming her, claiming she was framing TMC leaders and workers in false cases to appease the state government.
Political Background
The FIR comes amid escalating tensions between the TMC and the state's current political dispensation. Critics argue that such public statements by elected officials targeting police officers by implication — even without naming them — can amount to intimidation and obstruction of duty. This is not the first time Abhishek Banerjee has faced legal proceedings, and the case adds to a broader pattern of political-legal confrontations in West Bengal. Notably, the complainant in this instance is a private citizen rather than a police official herself.
No Response from TMC Yet
At the time of reporting, there was no immediate reaction from Abhishek Banerjee or the TMC leadership regarding the fresh FIR and the summons. The MP is required to present himself at Girish Park Police Station by 12 noon on 20 November, failing which the police may take further legal steps. All eyes will be on whether Banerjee complies with the summons or seeks legal relief before the deadline.