More trouble for Abhishek Banerjee as TMC office building owner serves legal notice

The owner of the building housing Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee's office has served a legal notice demanding the vacating of two floors. Rama Devi Goenka, representing the owner, claims the Trinamool Youth Congress entered into a 10-year agreement with her client in 2020 and failed to fulfill its terms. She states that possession was taken without obtaining the completion certificate from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC).

The owner also alleges illegal activities were occurring on the premises. The Trinamool Congress's Birbhum unit reportedly occupied the top floor without informing the owner. A legal notice was sent via email and post on August 24 and 25, respectively. The situation escalated when KMC officials, with police assistance, removed a large hoarding installed illegally on the building.

Arguments ensued, with Abhishek Banerjee and TMC leader Derek O'Brien present. Police eventually arrested 13 individuals. Municipal and Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul defended the removal, stating the hoarding posed a safety risk during storms and heavy rain. The case is currently being reviewed in the Calcutta High Court.