Mamata Banerjee sends legal notice over leaked medical records from 2021 injury

Political Storm Over Leaked Medical Records in West Bengal

The political landscape of West Bengal has been stirred once again by a controversy surrounding an injury sustained by former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during the 2021 assembly elections. The issue resurfaced after confidential medical records regarding her treatment were allegedly leaked and made public without authorization, prompting a strong legal response from the Trinamool Congress supremo.

In response to the disclosure, legal representatives acting on behalf of Mamata Banerjee served formal notices to the management of SSKM Hospital and several senior health department officials. The notice questions the legality of releasing sensitive health information, pointing out that such actions violate medical confidentiality laws and professional ethics.

Revisiting the 2021 Nandigram Campaign Injury

The controversy dates back to March 10, 2021, when Mamata Banerjee sustained injuries to her left foot during an election campaign in Nandigram. At the time, she claimed that an aggressive crowd had pushed her against the open door of her vehicle, resulting in severe trauma to her ankle and ligament. Following the incident, she was admitted to SSKM Hospital and subsequently campaigned across the state in a wheelchair.

The wheelchair-bound campaign became a major talking point during the high-stakes election, which ultimately saw TMC secure a resounding victory with over 210 seats, while the BJP was restricted to 77. The narrative surrounding the injury played a significant role in rallying public sentiment at the time.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari's Claims Spark New Debate

The issue came back into the spotlight when Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari publicly presented medical documents alleging that hospital records from 2021 showed no evidence of a fracture or bone dislocation. Adhikari questioned the authenticity of the claims made back then and stated that a thorough examination of the matter would be conducted.

Speaking during the campaign for the Nandigram bypolls, Adhikari criticized the initial narrative and suggested that further details would be revealed once the code of conduct is lifted, escalating the political friction between the ruling party and its rivals.

Legal Notice Sent to Major Healthcare Institutions

Taking strict legal action, the notice was dispatched to top officials, including the director of SSKM Hospital and senior doctors from the Bangur Institute of Neurosciences. The communication demands an explanation regarding whether proper judicial orders or patient consent were obtained before disclosing such records.

"Disclosing private medical documents without explicit consent is a grave violation of medical privacy and professional conduct that requires immediate accountability." — Legal Counsel

The TMC leadership has strongly condemned the leakage of records, dismissing Adhikari's allegations as a politically motivated tactic designed to influence ongoing by-elections and mislead the public.