Kolkata Civic Authorities Issue Notices to 17 Properties Linked to TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has taken a significant step by issuing notices to 17 properties allegedly associated with Abhishek Banerjee, the general secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC). These notices pertain to claims of unauthorized construction at these locations, raising questions amid a politically charged atmosphere in West Bengal.

As reported, the KMC’s actions have been met with strong denials from the TMC, which has branded the notices and the corresponding media coverage as “false and fabricated.” This development comes shortly after a police complaint and a first information report (FIR) were filed against Banerjee, adding to the political tension following the recent Assembly elections where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to defeat the TMC.

The TMC, which currently governs the KMC, finds itself in a precarious position as Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari expressed his intention to investigate the properties linked to TMC leaders, including Banerjee. This inquiry was directed to both the Municipal Affairs Department and the KMC commissioner, underscoring the heightened scrutiny of party officials in the wake of electoral setbacks.

The issued notices specifically require the property owners to provide documentation regarding building plan approvals and to clarify whether they obtained the necessary permissions for any additional construction. Among the requested details are installations of facilities such as lifts and escalators. If the owners fail to respond satisfactorily within seven days, the KMC has indicated that it will proceed with the demolition of unauthorized structures, with the costs of such actions to be recovered from the property owners.

This situation is particularly noteworthy as it reflects the ongoing power struggles within West Bengal’s political landscape. The TMC, which has long been a dominant force in the state, faces increasing challenges as opposition parties capitalize on perceived missteps. As the KMC continues to navigate this complex scenario, the outcomes of these notices could have wider implications for the relationship between civic bodies and political entities in the region.

Source: scroll.in