Central Forces Join Search at Abhishek Banerjee’s Kolkata Residence in Fraud Probe
A four hour search operation at the TMC leader’s home failed to locate his aide, who is wanted in an alleged ticket selling fraud case.
Political tensions intensified in West Bengal on Saturday after police, accompanied by central security personnel, carried out an early morning search at the Kolkata residence of Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee.
The operation began shortly after 3 am at Banerjee’s home in Kalighat and continued for more than four hours. Authorities were looking for Sumit Roy, Banerjee’s personal assistant, who is wanted in connection with an alleged financial fraud case registered at Salboni Police Station in Paschim Medinipur.
Investigators claim Roy is accused of collecting money from individuals by allegedly promising them party election tickets. Police sources said his mobile phone was last traced to Banerjee’s residence, leading officials to conduct the search.
A team from Salboni Police Station, with support from Kolkata Police, arrived at the residence and attempted to gain entry. The Trinamool Congress alleged that officers broke open a lock to enter the property. Banerjee later accused the team of forcibly entering the house and said they searched every part of the building, from the upper floors to the terrace.
Despite the extensive search, Roy was not found. Authorities have not confirmed whether any documents or other materials were recovered during the operation.
TMC chief Mamata Banerjee also reached the residence during the search and remained there while officials carried out their investigation.
The search comes at a time when Abhishek Banerjee is facing multiple summons from investigating agencies. He was recently questioned by the West Bengal CID in connection with a forged signature case and has been asked to appear again on June 14. Further notices from the CID and the Enforcement Directorate relate to a cyber complaint and alleged irregularities in primary school recruitment.
The TMC strongly criticised the action, describing it as politically motivated and aimed at intimidating opposition leaders. Party representatives pointed out that no evidence was reportedly recovered during the search.
The BJP defended the investigation, stating that law enforcement agencies are carrying out their duties according to legal procedures and that no individual is exempt from scrutiny.
The latest development has added to the charged political climate in West Bengal following the 2026 Assembly elections, deepening the confrontation between the ruling TMC and central investigative agencies.