Bulldozer reaches TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's residence amid row over footpath shed

A bulldozer reached the street outside Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee's Kalighat residence as civic workers moved to clear a temporary sidewalk structure. The operation by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation took place alongside police officers and central security forces. The bamboo and iron shed on the footpath had originally been set up by security authorities when the Diamond Harbour MP held Z-plus security cover. However, the structure continued to occupy the public walkway after his security level changed, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and local idol makers. 

Sidewalk structure cleared amid security debate

TMC representatives said that party workers had already begun dismantling parts of the structure voluntarily to prevent political controversy. Municipal teams and police subsequently removed the remaining framework and took away the materials. The action comes amidst a sharp political debate surrounding the property. Banerjee recently alleged that police personnel were placing his residence under illegal surveillance using official vehicles. He claimed that this reconnaissance mirrored actions taken prior to an attack on his residence during birthday celebrations on 7 November, expressing fears of another threat.

Political reactions and local police measures

Opposition leaders dismissed claims of political victimisation or targeted snooping. They maintained that municipal laws on encroachments must apply equally and urged law enforcement to handle security matters through standard procedures. Police officials intervened during the earlier clashes and established prohibitory restrictions around the Kalighat area to maintain order. Meanwhile, local party representatives questioned the restrictions, pointing out their impact on traditional Kali Puja preparations in the neighbourhood.