FIR Filed Against Abhishek Banerjee Over Alleged Medical Negligence
Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee has been booked in connection with a case where a woman lost her leg, allegedly due to negligence at a Sebaashray health camp. The Diamond Harbour MP had launched the initiative on January 2, when the Trinamool Congress was in power in the state. The woman, identified as 45-year-old Mina Devi from South 24 Parganas district, claimed that improper treatment at the camp led to complications resulting in amputation.
Details of the Incident
According to the police, the First Information Report (FIR) was registered on July 11 at the local police station following a complaint by the victim's family. The complaint alleges that the health camp, organized under the Sebaashray scheme, failed to provide adequate medical care. Mina Devi had visited the camp on January 5 for a routine check-up but was administered incorrect medication, leading to severe infection and eventual loss of her leg. The FIR names Banerjee along with several camp organizers and medical staff.
Political Reactions and Legal Proceedings
Banerjee, who is also the national general secretary of TMC, has denied any wrongdoing. In a statement, he said, "The allegations are baseless and politically motivated. Sebaashray camps have provided free healthcare to thousands of people. I am ready to cooperate with the investigation." The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has seized the opportunity to criticize the TMC government, demanding a thorough probe. State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar said, "This incident exposes the incompetence and corruption in TMC's health initiatives."
Impact on Sebaashray Health Camps
The Sebaashray scheme, launched by the TMC government in 2022, aims to provide free health check-ups and medicines in rural areas. Over 500 camps have been held across West Bengal, benefiting more than 2 million people, according to government data. However, this incident has raised questions about the quality of care and oversight. The state health department has announced an internal inquiry into the matter and suspended two doctors involved in the camp.
Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for accountability in public health initiatives. The next hearing is scheduled for August 15, 2026.
