Abhishek Banerjee moves Calcutta HC over frozen bank account

Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee on Monday approached the Calcutta High Court challenging the alleged freezing of his personal bank account by a private bank. His lawyer Ayan Bhattacharjee claimed the account was frozen without following proper procedure and that no police action had been initiated in connection with the freeze.

Justice Krishna Rao listed the matter for hearing on Wednesday and directed Banerjee's lawyer to serve notice on the parties. When the judge asked if any investigation was ongoing against Banerjee, his lawyer said the high court had granted him protection from coercive action in pending cases and that he was complying with conditions. Hindustan Times reports Banerjee's travel abroad for medical reasons has been allowed by the Supreme Court.

National Herald India notes the petition is separate from the ongoing legal dispute over the freezing of three TMC bank accounts linked to an Enforcement Directorate matter. The apex court last week granted Banerjee permission to travel abroad for three weeks for an eye surgery, pulling up the West Bengal government for opposing the request. The high court will hear the matter on Wednesday.