Calcutta High Court seeks affidavits from Mamata and Abhishek Banerjee in July 21 contempt case

The Calcutta High Court has directed Mamata Banerjee and Abhishek Banerjee to file affidavits in connection with a contempt petition alleging violation of court directions during the July 21 rally. The Division Bench of Justice Arijit Banerjee issued the direction and granted four weeks for filing the affidavits. The Court observed that if the affidavits are submitted within the next two weeks, the matter is likely to be heard on August 17.

During the hearing, senior advocate Kalyan Banerjee informed the Court that he would appear on behalf of Mamata Banerjee. The Court then sought clarification regarding legal representation for Abhishek Banerjee. The matter arose after Kalyan Banerjee did not provide a direct response, following which the Court observed that a rule would have to be issued if necessary.

The contempt petition relates to earlier directions issued by the Calcutta High Court in a public interest litigation concerning political rallies and processions. The Court had directed that major roads should not be completely blocked during political gatherings, that emergency services and ambulances should not be obstructed, and that alternative traffic arrangements should be ensured. The present matter concerns allegations that these directions were not complied with during the July 21 rally.