Abhishek-linked firm seeks 10 days from KMC over notices on alleged illegal constructions
The Statesman | 26 May 2026
A company linked to Trinamul Congress national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee has sought 10 days’ time from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) to submit documents related to properties that recently came under the civic body’s scanner over alleged illegal construction issues. According to KMC sources, a letter was submitted on Saturday evening by “Leaps and Bounds”, a company associated with the Diamond Harbour MP, to the municipal building department.
In the communication, the company reportedly stated that it was prepared to furnish all documents and details sought by the civic authorities but requested additional time to compile and submit the papers. Sources in the building department said the company has specifically sought 10 days to respond to the notices issued by the KMC under Section 401 of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Act. The civic body had recently sent notices concerning properties located on Kalighat Road and Harish Mukherjee Road in south Kolkata, allegedly linked to Banerjee and his organisation. KMC officials sought approved building plans, construction-related documents and permissions regarding alleged additional constructions at the premises.
Municipal sources said the authorities are examining whether any portions of the buildings were constructed beyond sanctioned plans. While initial reports suggested that notices had been served for two properties, later claims in sections of the media stated that as many as 17 properties, including some allegedly linked to Banerjee’s relatives, had come under scrutiny. Abhishek Banerjee reacted sharply to questions from journalists on Friday regarding the alleged illegal constructions. Responding to queries from the media, the Trinamul leader said: “Specify which portion of the building is illegal, then I will answer.”
Political observers believe the latest move by his company to seek time from the KMC may further intensify the controversy surrounding the issue. Mayor Firhad Hakim has maintained that the notices were issued as part of a routine administrative procedure by the building department and denied allegations of any political motive behind the action. KMC officials acknowledged receiving the request for additional time from the company. A senior civic official said it is customary for the municipal authorities to grant reasonable time if an individual or organisation seeks an opportunity to clarify its position or submit documents.
However, the final decision regarding the duration of extension rests with the corporation. Sources indicated that the civic body is inclined to grant additional time to the company before taking any further action. The developments come at a time when the KMC has intensified its drive against unauthorised constructions across the city following the recent political change in the state. In several areas, civic authorities have already launched demolition drives using bulldozers against structures allegedly built in violation of sanctioned plans and municipal rules.