The Calcutta High Court has scheduled a Wednesday hearing for a petition filed by Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, who is challenging the alleged freezing of his personal bank account by a private financial institution ahead of his planned medical trip abroad.
Justice Krishna Rao agreed to consider the matter after Banerjee sought an urgent hearing on Monday. The court directed the Diamond Harbour lawmaker’s legal team to serve formal notice to all involved parties prior to the proceedings.
Legal Arguments Before High Court
Advocate Ayan Bhattacharjee, representing Banerjee, told the court that the private bank froze the account without adhering to prescribed procedures or receiving police directives. Addressing queries regarding pending investigations, Bhattacharjee clarified that the high court has already granted the parliamentarian protection from coercive action in ongoing inquiries, and that Banerjee continues to comply fully with all court-mandated conditions.
The urgent petition was submitted to ensure financial access for Banerjee’s upcoming overseas travel for medical treatment.
Supreme Court Travel Permission
The high court filing follows a Supreme Court decision last week that granted Banerjee permission to travel abroad for three weeks to undergo eye surgery.
A Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana permitted the travel subject to conditions ensuring Banerjee remains available to investigative agencies. The bench rejected objections raised by the state, affirming that every individual possesses the right to travel abroad, select their medical care, and maintain privacy regarding personal health records.
The state had opposed the overseas travel request, with Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju citing at least 15 pending criminal cases against the MP and arguing that the legal matters increased the risk of non-return.
