TMC alleges police entered party office without serving notice

MP, August 28, 2026, Kolkata: A politically charged confrontation erupted outside the Trinamool Congress office at Camac Street on Thursday evening after Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) officials, backed by a large police contingent, removed a TMC signboard from the premises, triggering prolonged clashes between police and party workers and a fresh legal battle.

The TMC alleged that the police had “barged into” the TMC office at Camac Street with what it described as an “illegal notice” to take down the banner. Police, meanwhile, accused TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee’s supporters of obstructing officials.

Police said 12 people had been detained in connection with the incident.

The billboard was removed after the Kolkata Police complained to the civic body that it had allegedly been installed illegally. KMC’s advertising department subsequently sent officials to the office.

After an initial round of arguments, the civic team returned with police and entered the premises amid stiff resistance from Abhishek and his supporters.

The situation escalated as police and civic officials tried to reach the rooftop, where the billboard was installed. TMC workers blocked the staircase, leading to prolonged arguments and scuffles.

TMC MP Derek O’Brien reportedly fell on the stairs during the commotion.

Police personnel, some wearing helmets, eventually entered the building and broke open a lock to reach the billboard.

The TMC alleged that police manhandled women and party workers and accused the authorities of acting without a valid notice or order.

Abhishek described the action as “personal property” being illegally interfered with and alleged political vendetta by the BJP and Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.

In a Facebook Live, Abhishek claimed he was prevented from entering the office and alleged that police were acting under political pressure.

He said the party had faith in the judiciary, adding that he would approach the Calcutta High Court and, if necessary, the Supreme Court.

The controversy reached the High Court on Thursday itself. Abhishek’s lawyer is learnt to have sought an urgent hearing before the Acting Chief Justice’s bench.

The court said the matter could be mentioned on Friday.

After the billboard was removed, the TMC put up another banner at the same spot, further intensifying the standoff.

TMC MP Mahua Moitra accused Kolkata Police of “criminal trespass” and “carnage”, while O’Brien alleged that police had forcibly entered with an unsigned notice.

Abhishek also criticised the civic action over other billboards and alleged selective enforcement.