'Treatment Available In India': Calcutta HC Rejects Abhishek Banerjee's Plea Seeking Foreign Travel For Eye Treatment

In a setback to Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee, the Calcutta High Court on Wednesday refused to allow him to travel abroad for eye treatment.

A single-judge bench of Justice Saugata Bhattacharya said that Banerjee is facing a case for allegedly making intimidating statements during the election campaign; hence, he need not leave the country, as medical facilities are available in India as well.

Justice Bhattacharya said it did not matter where Banerjee sought treatment, as receiving treatment was more important. The same bench had dismissed Banerjee's petition on July 20, noting that Kolkata had many reputable eye clinics.

Interim protection from arrest extended

However, the High Court extended Banerjee's interim protection from arrest until October 6. Justice Bhattacharya directed him to appear before the head of the ophthalmology department of the state's SSKM Hospital.

The court stated that the doctors will decide whether his eyes can be treated there and that he will not be allowed to travel abroad until the report is received.

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Supreme Court directive

Notably, Banerjee had filed a petition in the Supreme Court, arguing that he had cooperated with investigators and hence should not be denied medical treatment. On Monday, the Supreme Court directed the Calcutta High Court to hear his petition within a week.

BJP, rebel TMC allege attempt to flee

The BJP and the rebel faction of TMC have alleged that Banerjee could flee if granted foreign clearance. Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul said, "Better facilities are available at the state hospital. There could be an escape plan."

LoP Ritabrata Banerjee referred to the misuse of diplomatic passports and the difficulty in getting them returned from countries with extradition treaties.

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Trinamool's response

Mamata faction of the TMC has rejected the allegations. Kunal Ghosh said Abhishek has been travelling abroad periodically for specialised eye treatment since his 2016 road accident. He has cooperated and the health issue should not be politicised.