Kolkata, 7 January (H.S.):

In response to allegations of extortion using the name of TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee and forged letterheads of BJP MLA Nikhilranjan Dey, West Bengal Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee has issued an eight-point directive to tighten the administration of the MLA Hostel. The directives, aimed at preventing misuse of MLA Hostel facilities, were put up on the notice board of the Kid Street MLA Hostel on Tuesday.

Key Highlights of the New Rules:

1. Rooms in the MLA Hostel will not be allotted based solely on recommendations made on an MLA's letterhead. Instead, the hostel superintendent or deputy superintendent must verify the claims directly with the concerned MLA.

2. Vehicles claiming to enter the premises for visiting MLAs will only be allowed if they carry an official hologram or Assembly sticker.

3. Visitors must carry a valid photo ID, which will be verified before entry is granted. Security personnel will also photograph visitors for record purposes.

4. Any suspicious individuals seen loitering near the premises will be interrogated by security staff.

Speaker Biman Banerjee emphasized the importance of adhering to these guidelines, stating, Although the Assembly has predefined rules for managing the MLA Hostel, they were not strictly enforced in recent years. These new directives aim to prevent the recurrence of such incidents and ensure proper management of the facility.

Meanwhile, the Kolkata Police has issued a second notice to BJP MLA Nikhilranjan Dey regarding allegations of extortion demanding ₹5 lakh using Abhishek Banerjee’s name. Dey has not been appeared before the police on Tuesday. Kolkata Police is preparing to summon him for questioning after Wednesday.

Hindusthan Samachar / SP Singh