Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee is unlikely to appear before the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Monday, citing health-related issues. The Diamond Harbour MP was summoned by the investigation agency in connection with a probe into the alleged use of forged signatures of party legislators in a communication submitted to the Assembly Secretariat.
Background of the Case
The CID is investigating a complaint alleging that the signatures of several TMC MLAs were forged on a letter submitted to the West Bengal Assembly Secretariat. The letter, purportedly signed by the lawmakers, raised certain demands. However, the MLAs later denied signing the document, prompting the Speaker to refer the matter to the police.
Summons Issued to Banerjee
Abhishek Banerjee, who is also the national general secretary of the TMC, was summoned by the CID to appear for questioning on June 1. However, sources close to the leader said that he would not be able to comply due to a medical condition. “He has been advised rest by his doctors and will not be able to travel to Kolkata for the interrogation,” a party insider said.
Political Reactions
The development has sparked a political slugfest, with the ruling TMC accusing the state’s opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using investigative agencies to target its leaders. “This is a clear case of political vendetta. The CID is being used as a tool to harass our leaders,” said a senior TMC leader. On the other hand, the BJP has demanded that Banerjee cooperate with the investigation and appear before the agency at the earliest.
Legal Implications
Legal experts say that failure to appear before an investigating agency without a valid reason could lead to coercive measures. However, if Banerjee provides a medical certificate, the CID may reschedule the questioning. The case is seen as a test of the state’s law and order machinery amid heightened political tensions.
Meanwhile, the CID is expected to continue its probe into the forgery allegations and may summon other TMC leaders in the coming days. The investigation has taken a new turn with Banerjee’s no-show, and the agency is likely to seek a fresh date for his appearance.
