Second FIR Lodged Against Abhishek Banerjee Over Sebaashray Health Camp Allegations

On Tuesday, Howrah police registered a second First Information Report (FIR) naming Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee in connection with the controversial Sebaashray health‑camp case. The fresh complaint, filed by a local activist, alleges that the camp, organized under the banner of the non‑profit Sebaashray, was riddled with financial mismanagement and favouritism.

According to the FIR, a sizable sum earmarked for free medical services was allegedly siphoned off, with procurement of medicines and equipment funneled through companies linked to Banerjee’s close aides. The complainant claims that the beneficiaries – mostly low‑income families from Howrah and surrounding districts – received sub‑standard care, while a few privileged individuals enjoyed preferential treatment.

"We are not looking for a political vendetta; we simply want accountability," the complainant, identified only as Ramesh Singh, told reporters. "If public money was indeed misused, it must be investigated, irrespective of the person involved."

The second FIR comes a month after a first FIR was lodged by a separate group of volunteers who alleged similar irregularities. While the earlier case is still under the purview of the state police, the latest filing pushes the matter into the central investigative domain, prompting calls for a more thorough probe.

Abhishek Banerjee, who also serves as the All India President of the Trinamool Congress, dismissed the allegations as “baseless political theatrics”. In a brief statement, he said, “My work for the people of West Bengal has always been transparent. These accusations are attempts to tarnish my image ahead of the upcoming elections.”

Opposition parties have seized on the development, demanding an independent inquiry. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal issued a press release urging the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the case, arguing that state agencies might be biased.

Legal experts note that filing multiple FIRs on the same matter is not uncommon in India, especially when new evidence surfaces or when complainants feel the first investigation is inadequate. "If the second FIR contains fresh particulars or new witnesses, the police are obligated to register it and proceed accordingly," said senior advocate Anupam Sengupta.

Meanwhile, the Sebaashray NGO has released a statement claiming it cooperated fully with authorities and that the health camp helped over 5,000 families. "We stand by our mission and will cooperate with any legitimate investigation," the statement read.

As the political heat rises, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on how the law enforcement agencies navigate this sensitive case, which sits at the crossroads of health welfare, public funds, and high‑profile politics.