A fresh political confrontation has erupted in West Bengal after Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee accused the state administration and police of acting unlawfully during the demolition of his party office in Amtala, South 24 Parganas. Banerjee alleged that police personnel, along with BJP workers, removed office equipment and documents after the demolition, calling the incident "robbery in police uniform."

The controversy follows Saturday's demolition of the front portion of the office building by the district administration, which claimed that the structure had been constructed without the necessary approvals. The action has intensified the ongoing political rivalry between the BJP and the TMC ahead of key political developments in the state.

Abhishek Shares Video, Levels Serious Allegations

Soon after the demolition, Abhishek Banerjee posted a video on social media platform X, alleging that police officers, in collusion with BJP supporters, entered the office and removed laptops, printers, official documents, furniture and other equipment.

According to the TMC leader, the action amounted to theft carried out under official protection rather than lawful enforcement. He claimed the property was removed despite the matter being pending before the Calcutta High Court, alleging that due legal procedures were ignored.

Banerjee described the incident as evidence of what he called the BJP government's "bulldozer model," accusing the administration of using state machinery to target political opponents.

TMC Plans Legal Action

The TMC has announced that it will challenge the demolition before the Calcutta High Court and, if necessary, approach the Supreme Court. The party also claimed that video footage of the incident has been forwarded to the Office of the Chief Justice of India, alleging vandalism and unlawful removal of property.

Banerjee asserted that legal proceedings would be initiated against everyone allegedly involved in the incident, warning that political protection would not shield those responsible.

Administration Defends Demolition

The district administration has rejected allegations of illegal action, stating that the demolition followed established legal procedures.

Officials said complaints had been received regarding unauthorized construction at the office premises. According to the administration, notices were issued on 15 July, asking the concerned parties to appear for a hearing and explain the alleged violations.

Since no response was received despite repeated notices, authorities decided to proceed with enforcement action and removed the portion of the building that was allegedly constructed without approval.

Amtala Office Held Strategic Political Importance

The demolished office in Amtala has long served as a key organisational centre for Abhishek Banerjee's political activities in the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency. Following his election as MP in 2014 and appointment as TMC National General Secretary in 2021, the office became an important hub for constituency management, election planning and party coordination.

Although the office reportedly remained closed after the TMC's defeat in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, it continued to hold symbolic and political significance for the party in South 24 Parganas, traditionally considered one of its strongest regions.

Political Tensions Continue to Rise

The demolition comes amid increasing political friction between the ruling BJP-led administration and the TMC. Earlier this month, Abhishek Banerjee had alleged that investigative agencies, including the STF and CID, were selectively targeting his associates.

With both sides standing by their claims, the dispute is now expected to move into the courts, where the legality of the demolition and the allegations surrounding the removal of office property are likely to be examined.