Trinamool Congress General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee failed to show up at Bidhannagar Court in West Bengal as required for providing his voice samples in connection with a CID probe into an alleged hate speech case related to the recent Assembly elections. Despite being directed by the court to appear by noon, Abhishek did not arrive, prompting the public prosecutor to accuse him of deliberately delaying the investigation process. This marks the second time Abhishek has missed court appearances for providing his voice samples.
A team of CID officials was present at the court as scheduled, but Abhishek’s absence led to concerns about his cooperation with the investigation. The public prosecutor submitted a written statement to the court, alleging that Abhishek’s repeated no-shows were intentional violations of the court order and called for legal action against him. The prosecutor emphasized that Abhishek’s actions were obstructing the progress of the hate speech case, where he is accused of making inflammatory statements and threats.
The Calcutta High Court had previously granted Abhishek interim protection from coercive police action until July 31, questioning his reluctance to cooperate with the investigation. Despite seeking relief from appearing at Bidhannagar Court for providing voice samples, Abhishek was advised by the High Court to comply with the investigative process without further delay. The court emphasized the importance of cooperation, especially considering the protection granted to Abhishek.
