Firhad Hakim says ‘matter outside my jurisdiction’ over KMC notice to Abhishek Banerjee

A notice has reportedly been issued by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation regarding alleged unauthorised construction at the residence of Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee. The property, named “Shantiniketan,” has come under scrutiny over allegations that multiple structures were built in violation of civic rules. According to reports, the civic body may proceed with demolition of the allegedly illegal portions if satisfactory explanations are not submitted.

The development triggered political controversy, with questions being raised over the role of Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim and the municipal administration. Addressing journalists at the Assembly on Wednesday, Firhad Hakim distanced himself from the matter and said he had no prior knowledge of the notice. He stated that the issue did not fall within his jurisdiction and that the person who received the notice would be the appropriate individual to respond.

Explaining the functioning of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, Firhad Hakim said elected representatives are responsible for policy decisions, while executive responsibilities are handled by the municipal commission. According to him, elected representatives do not directly supervise building clearances or determine whether any structure violates civic regulations. He also said he was present to speak only about KMC laws and not about personal matters.

TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh also commented on the controversy and alleged that attempts were being made to malign certain leaders of the party and circulate what he described as “fake information.” However, he added that the recipient of the notice would be in the best position to explain the matter. Both Firhad Hakim and Kunal Ghosh addressed the media at the Assembly amid growing political attention surrounding the issue.

Sources claimed that former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee later held a meeting with the Mayor and members of the Mayor-in-Council regarding the matter. Reports suggest she questioned how such a notice had been issued to Abhishek Banerjee’s residence. Sources further claimed Firhad informed the meeting that he had not been aware of the notice beforehand and that it had allegedly been issued without informing him.