Another FIR against Abhishek over ‘Sebashray’ controversy; Trinamool alleges ‘political vendetta’, Health Department launches probe
Kolkata, July 5: Former Diamond Harbour MP Abhishek Banerjee faces further trouble regarding the ‘Sebashray’ project. Following the case in Diamond Harbour, an FIR has now been lodged against him at the Bishnupur police station as well. Trinamool, however, claims the entire matter is an act of ‘political vendetta’. Meanwhile, the state Health Department has also initiated a suo motu investigation.
Who is named in the FIR?—
According to police sources, the FIR filed at Bishnupur police station names Abhishek Banerjee alongside his PA Sumit Roy, Bishnupur Trinamool MLA Dilip Mondal, Magrahat West MLA Shamim Ahmed, and arrested Trinamool leader Jahangir Khan, among others.
Cases have been registered under various sections of the BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita), as well as the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, the PCPNDT Act, and the Atomic Energy Act.
Trinamool’s reaction: ‘A motivated case’:–
As of the time of writing this report, Abhishek Banerjee has not made any personal comment. However, a Trinamool spokesperson stated, “Lakhs of people have received free medical treatment through ‘Sebashray’. Motivated cases are being filed following the change of government. Everything will be proven in court.”
Trinamool claims the allegations of irregularities are baseless. The party further asserts that the allegations regarding manipulation of the ‘Swasthya Sathi’ scheme—raised by a former coordinator—were ‘tutored by the BJP’.
Separate probe by the Health Department:—
Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee stated, “The Health Department has initiated an independent investigation. The police have started their own probe. We will forward any evidence or information we receive to the police or the Home Department.”
What are the allegations regarding ‘Sebashray’?:–
Allegations raised by complainants:
- Fake doctors: Patients were examined by Ayurvedic, Homeopathic, and Dental students under the names of specialist doctors.
- Irregularities: Irregularities involving medical equipment and diagnostic tests. 3. Financial corruption: Corruption involving crores of rupees and the misuse of ‘Swasthya Sathi’ cards.
An FIR had previously been registered under 16 sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita based on complaints filed by BJP leader Abhijit Das (alias Bobby) and Diamond Harbour resident Sukhdev Das. Now, a fresh FIR has been lodged under 27 sections across six different laws.
