Cal HC extends interim protection from arrest to Abhishek Banerjee till August 31

The Calcutta High Court has extended interim protection from arrest for Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee until August 31. The protection covers three criminal proceedings against the Diamond Harbour MP. The court has scheduled August 25 to deliver its final decision on Banerjee's plea to have the three First Information Reports (FIRs) against him quashed.

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the situation in West Bengal had altered following the change in the ruling dispensation.

Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya extended the interim relief, stating it would remain in effect until August 31 or further orders. The judge rejected arguments that Banerjee's "super-influential" status could hinder the investigation and trial. The court verbally noted that the political landscape in West Bengal has shifted following a change in the ruling administration.

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super-influential

Earlier, on July 30, Justice Bhattacharyya had granted Banerjee interim protection until August 17 concerning FIRs filed in Bhowanipore and Bishnupur. Banerjee's lawyer requested copies of all FIRs registered against him, and the state reported on August 6 that 16 FIRs were pending across various police stations.

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if the petitioner is not taken into custody, witnesses will be intimidated and prevented from deposing before the trial courts.

During the proceedings, complainant Abhijit Das's counsel, Jayanta Narayan Chatterjee, argued that Banerjee's influence could lead to witness intimidation. Chatterjee also sought police protection for his client, fearing for his safety. Justice Bhattacharyya questioned the extent of Banerjee's influence, referencing the recent demolition of his MP office, which was halted by the high court. The judge pointed out that such an action, especially on a weekend, indicated a change in the state's dynamics.

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Das may get "murdered" otherwise.