Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Jun 1: Former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee has accused two private hospitals in Kolkata of coming under external pressure and failing to provide proper treatment to her nephew, Abhishek Banerjee, who was allegedly injured in an attack by a mob.

Speaking to reporters outside Belle Vue Clinic late on Saturday, Mamata claimed there was "pressure from above" on the hospitals and that treatment was not being provided appropriately.

Abhishek Banerjee was reportedly attacked while visiting Sonarpur to meet the family members of a Trinamool Congress worker, Sanju Karmakar, who was allegedly a victim of post-poll violence.

Following the incident, the Diamond Harbour MP was taken to Apollo Multispeciality Hospital on EM Bypass at around 7 pm with complaints of pain in his neck, back and waist.

Sources said doctors at Apollo found his injuries to be superficial and believed they did not warrant hospital admission.

Alleging that his admission was obstructed due to external pressure, Mamata decided to shift him to Belle Vue Clinic.

Senior Trinamool Congress leader Derek O'Brien also alleged that the police and administration were interfering in Abhishek's medical assessment at the behest of political authorities in the state.

After being shifted to Belle Vue Clinic, doctors there reportedly reached a similar conclusion, stating that there were no serious signs of injury apart from chest bruises. According to hospital sources, the patient was conscious, oriented and speaking normally, and therefore did not require admission.

Mamata, however, maintained that one of the hospitals had advised multiple medical tests and scans. Expressing concern over the situation, she alleged that even hospital authorities had informed them of being under pressure.

"We have decided to ensure that his treatment continues under the supervision of family physicians," she said.

Taking a political swipe at the government, Mamata said the people of West Bengal had not voted for such a situation and asserted that citizens should never have to fear uncertainty over medical treatment during a health emergency due to external influences or non-medical considerations.

Abhishek was subsequently taken home, where his treatment will continue under medical supervision, according to family members.