Calcutta HC Rebukes Bank Authorities Over Debit Restrictions on Abhishek Banerjee’s Accounts

August 20, 2026

Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court on Thursday rebuked bank authorities over the imposition of debit restrictions on the accounts of Trinamool Congress general secretary and Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha MP Abhishek Banerjee, observing that the action appeared to have been taken on insufficient grounds.

A single-judge bench of Justice Krishna Rao questioned the bank’s explanation for restricting transactions in Banerjee’s accounts. The matter is scheduled to be heard again in the second half of Thursday, when the bank authorities will be required to clarify their position.

Bank cites KYC update for account restrictions

The matter came before the court after Banerjee approached the High Court earlier this week, alleging that debit restrictions had been imposed on his bank account ahead of his planned visit to the US for ophthalmic treatment.

His US visit had been cleared by the Supreme Court earlier this month.

Banerjee’s counsel also alleged that two of his credit cards had been blocked without prior notice.

During Thursday’s hearing, the bank’s counsel initially told the court that the debit restrictions were imposed because Banerjee’s KYC (Know Your Customer) details needed to be updated.

However, Banerjee’s counsel argued that the explanation was not convincing, pointing out that his existing KYC was reportedly valid until December.

HC questions need for physical KYC verification

Justice Rao questioned why Banerjee needed to be physically present at the bank for KYC updating when the process could be completed online.

The bank’s counsel subsequently said that the requirement was due to certain internal issues at the bank.

The explanation did not satisfy the court.

Justice Rao observed that imposing debit restrictions without giving prior notice was not acceptable.

Bank links KYC issue to ED case

The bank’s counsel later offered another explanation, stating that Banerjee’s name, phone number and other documents were connected with a case registered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The counsel said the bank was unable to disclose further details in open court.

The explanation further questioned the consistency of the bank’s position.

Justice Rao reportedly told the bank’s counsel not to change the explanation for why the KYC update was required.

Bank authorities asked to clarify stand

The court has scheduled another hearing in the second half of Thursday, when the bank authorities will have to explain their position regarding the debit restrictions.

The court’s observations came during the hearing of Banerjee’s petition challenging the restrictions on his bank accounts and the blocking of his two credit cards.