Abhishek Banerjee claims 25 associates summoned; alleges harassment by STF, CID

Abhishek Banerjee accuses STF and CID of targeting associates

Trinamool Congress (TMC) national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee on Friday alleged that nearly 25 individuals associated with him had been summoned by the West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), claiming the move was part of a campaign of political harassment.

Addressing reporters, Banerjee said the repeated summons issued to his associates were intended to intimidate those linked to him politically. He alleged that investigative agencies were being misused to exert pressure ahead of upcoming political developments in the state.

"They have summoned around 25 people associated with me. This is nothing but harassment," Banerjee said, accusing the authorities of targeting his close aides without justification.

The TMC leader further claimed that despite the repeated questioning of his associates, no evidence of wrongdoing had been established. He asserted that his party would continue its political activities and would not be deterred by what he described as attempts to intimidate its leaders and workers.

The allegations come amid heightened political tensions in West Bengal, where the ruling TMC and the opposition BJP have frequently accused each other of misusing investigative agencies for political purposes.

Responding to Banerjee's remarks, BJP leaders rejected the allegations, stating that investigative agencies were carrying out their duties independently and in accordance with the law. They argued that no individual should be above investigation if complaints or evidence warrant an inquiry.

Neither the West Bengal STF nor the CID had issued an official statement responding to Banerjee's allegations at the time of publication.

The latest claims add to the ongoing political confrontation in the state, where investigations into several high-profile cases have often become flashpoints between the ruling party and the opposition. Leaders from both sides have repeatedly traded accusations over the conduct of probe agencies and the timing of investigations.

Political observers say the issue is likely to intensify the war of words between the TMC and the BJP as both parties prepare for future electoral contests. However, the allegations made by Banerjee regarding harassment have not been independently verified.