Kolkata: Police have registered an FIR against former Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee over comments she made during a speech at Y Channel on March 9. The action was taken based on a complaint alleging that the speech intended to provoke a breach of peace and affect public tranquility, communal harmony, and the democratic structure of the state.
Complaint Details
The complainant, Tushar Kanti Das (45), filed a zero FIR against Banerjee at Netaji Nagar Police Station on June 5. Das alleged that Banerjee, who was then Chief Minister, delivered a misleading speech implying that a specific community could suffer if voting trends shifted, leading to a sense of insecurity among citizens. He further alleged that episodes of communal violence in parts of Kolkata and West Bengal may be linked to Banerjee's speech.
Transfer and Legal Sections
The complaint was transferred to Hare Street Police Station on June 7, as the speech was made in an area under its jurisdiction. The FIR was registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections 196 (1), 351 (2), and 352.
Third Complaint Since Election Defeat
This is the third complaint against Banerjee since her party was removed from office following the assembly election results on May 4. A Siliguri-based lawyer, Rinku Singh Chatterjee, filed a complaint against Banerjee on June 5 over remarks she made pertaining to the arrest of the alleged killers of Bangladeshi activist Sharif Osman bin Hadi. Chatterjee alleged that Banerjee's comments triggered tensions between India and Bangladesh and damaged India's image globally. The complainant further alleged that her statements had the potential to provoke hostility and unrest in Bangladesh and endanger the lives of Hindus in that country.
Additional Complaint
A third complaint was lodged against Banerjee and others over alleged misuse of the annual Eid congregation on Red Road for political purposes and violation of Islamic principles.
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