kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : West Bengal after the Kolkata Municipal Corporation reportedly issued a notice regarding alleged illegal construction linked to Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee. The notice has triggered intense political debate across the state, with questions being raised about municipal procedures and accountability.

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has come under scrutiny over allegations of unauthorized construction at a property associated with Abhishek Banerjee in Santiniketan. It has been claimed that certain structures may have been built in violation of building regulations. Authorities have indicated that if satisfactory explanations are not provided, parts of the construction could face demolition action under municipal rules.

The issue has quickly escalated into a major political controversy, with opposition parties targeting the ruling establishment. Questions have also been raised regarding the role and awareness of Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim in the matter.

Responding to media queries during a press interaction at the West Bengal Assembly, Firhad Hakim distanced himself from the controversy, stating that the matter does not fall under his direct jurisdiction. He clarified that the municipal corporation operates through administrative mechanisms and that elected representatives are primarily responsible for policy decisions rather than day-to-day executive enforcement.

Hakim further stated that he had no personal knowledge of the specific notice and emphasized that such matters are handled through official executive channels. He also maintained that he would not comment on individual property-related issues.

Senior Trinamool Congress spokesperson Kunal Ghosh defended the party, alleging that attempts were being made to malign certain leaders through misinformation and politically motivated narratives. He suggested that the concerned individual would be in the best position to clarify the situation.

The controversy has reportedly also drawn attention within the ruling party’s top leadership, with internal discussions being held regarding the issuance of the notice and the communication gap surrounding it. Sources indicate that concerns were raised over how such a notice was issued without prior knowledge of senior civic authorities.

The development has intensified political tensions in West Bengal, with opposition leaders questioning administrative transparency, while the ruling party has dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically driven. The matter continues to evolve as authorities await a formal response regarding the alleged construction irregularities.