Kolkata, 03 June (H.S.) : Trinamool Congress National General Secretary and Member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee has approached the Calcutta High Court seeking protection from arrest in connection with the alleged signature forgery controversy. Banerjee has challenged the notice issued by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and requested the court to ensure that no coercive action is taken against him during the course of the investigation.

The matter was mentioned before the court of Justice Apurba Sinha Ray on Wednesday. The court permitted the filing of the petition, and according to preliminary information, the case is likely to be heard on Friday.

The move comes amid mounting political and legal developments surrounding the alleged signature forgery case, which has triggered a major crisis within the Trinamool Congress. Several party legislators had alleged that their signatures were misused in an official communication, prompting an investigation by the CID. As part of the probe, the agency had issued a notice directing Abhishek Banerjee to appear for questioning at the CID headquarters in Bhawani Bhavan.

Banerjee was scheduled to appear before investigators on Monday. However, a day earlier, he faced protests and alleged physical jostling while visiting the family of a deceased Trinamool worker in Sonarpur. Eggs were reportedly thrown at him during the incident, following which his health deteriorated and he remained under medical rest at his residence.

Citing health concerns, Banerjee sought 15 days' time from the CID before appearing for questioning. Despite the request, a CID team visited his residence in Kalighat on the same day. Investigators conducted videography of the premises and stated that no aspect of the investigation was being overlooked. Reports later indicated that another notice had also been issued in his name.

The legal battle unfolds against the backdrop of growing unrest within the Trinamool Congress. Political circles are abuzz with speculation about a possible split in the party, with reports suggesting that a group of dissident legislators led by Ritabrata Banerjee is exploring the formation of an alternative political platform.

Political analysts believe that the signature controversy and the developments arising from it have significantly deepened the internal crisis within the party. Amid these circumstances, Abhishek Banerjee's decision to seek judicial protection reflects concerns over possible arrest and escalating legal pressure.

All eyes are now on the Calcutta High Court, whose forthcoming decision could have significant legal and political implications for the ongoing investigation and the evolving power struggle within the Trinamool Congress.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh