The internal friction within the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has escalated into a legal battle. New Market Police have formally summoned Member, Mayor-in-Council (MMIC) Baiswanor Chattopadhyay following allegations of misconduct and harassment directed toward the Corporation’s Secretary.

The incident has sparked intense political debate regarding the stability and decorum of the current municipal board.

The Genesis of the Conflict

The controversy stems from an unprecedented standoff last Friday. Despite KMC Commissioner Smita Pandey’s order to cancel the scheduled session, Chairperson Mala Roy insisted the proceedings continue, directing all councilors to attend.

When the primary assembly hall remained locked, the session was forced into the visitors’ room. In the heat of the moment, a delegation of Trinamool Congress (TMC) councilors, led by Baiswanor Chattopadhyay, reportedly stormed the Secretary’s office, demanding the assembly hall be opened. It is during this exchange that the Secretary was allegedly subjected to verbal abuse and physical intimidation.

Police Action and Investigations

Following the confrontation, both the Corporation Secretary and the Commissioner filed a formal complaint at the New Market Police Station.

Current Status: Police have issued a notice to Chattopadhyay to record his statement.

Objective: Investigators aim to determine the extent of his involvement in the alleged harassment.

Wider Crackdown: Urban Development Minister Agnimitra Paul has signaled a zero-tolerance policy toward the intimidation of government officials. Notably, an individual identified as Mr. Polley (Sudip Polley) has already been arrested in connection with the unrest.

“Freedom of Speech” vs. Legal Accountability

Defending his actions, Baiswanor Chattopadhyay framed the incident as a struggle for democratic rights rather than an act of harassment.

“As a member of the Mayor-in-Council and a representative of the people, I have the right to demand that the assembly hall be opened. If expressing this is considered a crime, it reflects poorly on the state of democracy in our country,” Chattopadhyay stated.

Looming Arrest?

Speculation regarding Chattopadhyay’s potential arrest intensified following comments by Minister Agnimitra Paul, who indicated that instructions for the arrest of a “Mr. Chatterjee” had been issued. While the Minister did not explicitly use Baiswanor’s full name, the political circles in Kolkata are abuzz with the possibility that the veteran leader may be the next to face custody.

The situation remains fluid as the police continue their probe into the chaotic events at the KMC headquarters.

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