Calcutta High Court denies interim relief over TMC billboard removal

The Calcutta High Court on Friday did not pass any interim order on a petition filed by the Trinamool Congress over the dismantling of an allegedly unauthorised party billboard at MP Abhishek Banerjee's office in Kolkata.The court said there was no scope for interim protection at this stage as the signboard at 9, Camac Street had already been removed by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation a day earlier.Justice Raja Basu Chowdhury also declined the party's requests for restoration of the nameboard, disclosure of the names of KMC and police officials involved, and an injunction restraining the municipal authorities from taking any steps in respect of the premises.The court directed both sides to file affidavits setting out their stand and said the matter will be heard again upon mentioning by the parties. In its order, the court said, "Though the petitioner would insist for restoration of the nameboard, I find that it is too premature to seek such a prayer. The same would tantamount to granting of a final relief at an interim stage which is not permissible in law."On the plea seeking an order against further municipal action at the Camac Street premises, the court observed, "It is also well settled that an order cannot be passed on the basis of mere apprehension." The case followed Thursday's operation in which private guards at the office, Banerjee's supporters and some party leaders allegedly scuffled with police and KMC officials while trying to prevent them from entering the building and removing the billboard.The signboard, bearing TMC signage and mounted on an iron structure facing the road on the top floor of the building, was dismantled by KMC personnel with police assistance.TMC Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien, who was present at the spot during the operation, described reports of resistance by private guards as "fake news".He said the guards were posted on duty at the entrance of the building. Police said 13 people were arrested in connection with the incident, while the High Court on Friday refused interim relief and asked both sides to place their contentions on affidavit.- EndsPublished By: India Today Web Desk Published On: Aug 28, 2026 23:53 IST