The Calcutta High Court has dismissed TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee’s plea seeking permission to travel abroad for eye treatment. The court cited the need for him to first undergo an examination by a medical board in India, a decision that has sparked political backlash.
Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court has dismissed Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee’s petition seeking permission to travel abroad for eye treatment. The court said that before granting treatment abroad, it is necessary to ascertain whether medical facilities available in India are feasible. The court also observed that when a person is under investigation in various criminal cases, it is necessary to consider all legal aspects when deciding on permission to travel abroad.
Suggestion to get examined by medical board
During the hearing, the court recommended that Abhishek Banerjee’s eye condition be evaluated by a specialist medical board from the state-run SSKM Hospital in Kolkata. The purpose of this evaluation was to determine whether treatment was possible within India or whether travel abroad was necessary. The court believed that if effective treatment was available within the country, there would be no need to permit travel abroad.
What did the court say?
In its order, the court stated that if the petitioner is unwilling to appear before a medical board and undergo an examination, there is no basis for considering permission to travel abroad. The court clarified that the issue raised in the petition cannot be kept pending indefinitely. Therefore, the application is dismissed. According to the court, it must first determine whether treatment abroad is truly a medical necessity.
Criminal cases were also mentioned
During the hearing, the court also noted that various cases are being investigated against Abhishek Banerjee. Therefore, this aspect cannot be ignored when granting permission to travel abroad. However, the court did not comment on the merits of any case in its order, stating only that a balanced decision is necessary, taking into account the pending investigation and legal proceedings.
Political reaction also emerged
Following the High Court’s decision, reactions to the issue intensified in West Bengal politics. Rebel TMC leader Sandipan Saha questioned why Abhishek Banerjee wanted to seek medical treatment abroad instead of undergoing a medical examination in India. He also claimed that he had made several foreign trips over the past years and the purpose of those trips should also be investigated. Saha said that even if a public representative has privileges like a diplomatic passport, the purpose of their travels should be completely transparent.
What argument was given on behalf of Abhishek Banerjee?
Abhishek Banerjee’s petition stated that he needed to travel abroad for eye treatment. However, the court deemed it necessary to obtain the opinion of a medical board before making a final decision on this argument. When the court suggested a medical examination in India, the petitioner indicated that he would not appear before the medical board. Subsequently, the court dismissed the petition.
Background: Investigations into several cases are ongoing.
Information has emerged about various FIRs filed against Abhishek Banerjee in West Bengal. These include allegations related to alleged statements made during the election campaign, among other charges. He has challenged these cases in court and received interim relief in some cases. However, the legal process in these cases is still ongoing.
Judicial process and permission to travel abroad
In India, if an individual is facing an investigation or judicial proceeding, permission to travel abroad often depends on court approval. In such cases, the court attempts to ensure that the foreign travel does not jeopardize the investigation or judicial process. It also considers whether the travel is truly necessary or whether alternative solutions are available within the country.
Political and legal ramifications
The High Court’s decision has become a topic of discussion in West Bengal politics. While the opposition is hailing it as a victory for the legal process, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has yet to issue a detailed official response. Legal experts believe that, if necessary, the petitioners may choose to challenge the order in a larger High Court bench or the Supreme Court.