Two FIRs Trigger Major Political Controversy in West Bengal Over ₹550 Crore Allegations
A significant political row has emerged in West Bengal after two separate FIRs were registered alleging large-scale corruption worth nearly ₹550 crore against Trinamool Congress national general secretary and Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee. The complaints were filed after allegations raised by BJP leader Abhijit Das (Babi).
The cases have been registered in police stations across South 24 Parganas district and relate to alleged illegal soil excavation activities as well as irregularities in cyclone relief distribution.
Allegations of Illegal Soil Excavation and Land Damage
The first FIR, lodged at Kalitala Ashuti Police Station, names several individuals including Abhishek Banerjee, his private secretary Sumit Roy, Bishnupur MLA Dilip Mondal, and others.
The complaint alleges that around 163 bighas of agricultural land were illegally excavated from 2017 onwards. It further claims that fertile topsoil was removed and sold through an organized network for commercial profit.
According to the allegations, the scale of activity increased significantly during 2022 and 2023, with illegal gains estimated at over ₹300 crore. The complaint also references satellite imagery and supporting documents that reportedly indicate extensive land alteration and systematic soil extraction.
It has further been alleged that the activity caused environmental damage and negatively impacted agricultural productivity, while authorities allegedly failed to act despite repeated local complaints.
Second FIR Raises Questions Over Cyclone Amphan Relief Distribution
The second FIR, registered at Bishnupur Police Station, focuses on alleged irregularities in the distribution of relief materials meant for victims of Cyclone Amphan.
The complaint claims that tarpaulins and other essential relief supplies were misused or diverted, resulting in financial irregularities estimated at around ₹250 crore.
The allegations suggest large-scale mismanagement in the distribution process, raising questions over how government aid was handled in cyclone-affected regions.
Legal Provisions and Investigation Status
Both FIRs reportedly include multiple non-bailable sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Investigating agencies are expected to examine documentary evidence and other materials submitted in the complaint.
Political Context and Ongoing Scrutiny
The development comes amid heightened political scrutiny of Abhishek Banerjee, who has previously been questioned in other matters by central investigative agencies, adding further political significance to the latest FIRs.
