The Calcutta High Court on Thursday granted interim protection from coercive action to Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee in connection with the fake signature case. Justice Kausik Chanda, while issuing the interim relief for a period of three weeks, directed Banerjee to appear before the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at its headquarters, Bhabani Bhaban in Kolkata, by 6 pm on the same day for questioning in the matter.
Background of the Case
The fake signature row pertains to allegations that Banerjee had submitted forged signatures in documents related to a political rally. The CID had summoned him for questioning, following which he approached the High Court seeking protection from arrest. The court's order provides him temporary reprieve while ensuring his cooperation with the investigation.
Court's Directive
Justice Chanda made it clear that the interim protection is conditional upon Banerjee's appearance before the investigating agency. The court also instructed the CID to conduct the questioning in a fair and transparent manner. The case is scheduled for further hearing after three weeks.
Banerjee, the nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has been a prominent figure in state politics. The development comes amid ongoing political tensions in the state, with the TMC accusing the opposition of using investigative agencies to target its leaders.
