TMC Leaders Booked Following Clash Over Illegal Billboard Removal in Kolkata

Trinamool Congress leaders Abhishek Banerjee and Derek O'Brien have been booked for allegedly assaulting police personnel and obstructing government officials during the removal of an unauthorized billboard outside Banerjee's office on Camac Street in Kolkata. A Kolkata court has denied bail to 13 people arrested in connection with the incident, remanding them to police custody until September 3. The Calcutta High Court also denied relief to Banerjee regarding a petition he filed on the matter.

The confrontation occurred on Thursday when Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) officials and police attempted to remove a signboard that the city claimed was illegal and potentially dangerous. Police reports state that TMC leaders and supporters formed a human barricade to block the officials. According to police, some individuals snatched a wireless radio from a constable and a woman officer was attacked. In response, the TMC alleged that municipal officials trespassed into their office and assaulted staff, including women security personnel.

Framing of the event varies by political lean. Center-right coverage emphasizes the illegality of the billboard and the behavior of the parliament members, quoting officials who distinguish between legitimate protest and physical resistance. Left-leaning coverage highlights the party's claims of trespassing and the alleged assault of TMC supporters by officials. Center coverage focuses on the legal proceedings and the booking of the specific leaders.

TMC founder Mamata Banerjee criticized the arrests at a rally, alleging that the police are acting on behalf of the BJP and questioning why BJP posters in the area are not removed. Urban development and municipal affairs minister Agnimitra Paul defended the KMC's actions, stating that illegal activity will not be tolerated.