**Calcutta High Court Hears Election Petition Against Abhishek Banerjee’s Victory**
The Calcutta High Court has commenced hearings on an election petition that contests the overwhelming victory of Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee in the 2024 parliamentary elections for the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency. The petition was filed by BJP candidate Abhijit Das (Bobby), who alleges significant electoral fraud during the elections, questioning both the electoral process and its results.
Das’s attorney, Billwadal Bhattacharya, stated, “There have been significant instances of fraud in this electoral area, and I hope the court’s order will bring this to light.” After a seven-month delay, the case was finally brought before the court, with Justice Sugato Bhattacharya ordering the preservation of all election-related data, including CCTV footage and digital records from the constituency. The Election Commission and the district electoral officer have been instructed to maintain these materials for review.
The next hearing is set for May 5. Abhishek Banerjee secured his third consecutive win in the Diamond Harbour constituency, achieving a remarkable margin of 710,930 votes. His closest competitor, Abhijit Das, has raised concerns about alleged illegal voting practices associated with Banerjee’s campaign.
The case, initially listed by Judge Ajay Kumar Mukherjee, was later heard by Justice Sugato Bhattacharya, marking a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny of the electoral process in West Bengal.
**FAQ**
*What is the main issue in the election petition against Abhishek Banerjee?*
The petition alleges widespread electoral fraud during the 2024 parliamentary elections, challenging both the election process and the outcome in the Diamond Harbour constituency.
