Kolkata, Sep 16 (IANS) Trinamool Congress MP and party national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, who is currently in the United States for eye treatment with the permission of the Supreme Court, has triggered political curiosity with a close-up photograph of his face posted on Instagram.
The Diamond Harbour MP shared the photograph on his Instagram story, showing his eye and a visible scar. The accompanying caption in English read: “The scar tells you I’ve been through something. The eyes tell you I’m nowhere near done!”
The post has sparked speculation in political circles, with some wondering whether the message was simply an expression of the physical pain and medical challenges he has endured or whether it carried a broader political message.
Abhishek has been in the US for more than 10 days for treatment and medical consultation. His latest social media post has offered a glimpse of the condition of his eye.
Against the backdrop of his old eye injury and prolonged medical treatment, the post has been interpreted by some observers as a reference to his political experience and continuing role in public life. The message has also been seen as an indication that Abhishek is not stepping away from the political arena and could be preparing for a more active role in the days ahead.
Abhishek suffered a serious injury to his left eye in a road accident in 2016. Since then, he has undergone multiple surgeries in India and abroad and has travelled overseas periodically for specialised medical advice and treatment. His latest US visit is also related to his eye condition.
However, his foreign trip was preceded by a legal battle. The Calcutta High Court had initially refused permission for him to travel abroad for treatment. Abhishek subsequently approached the Supreme Court, challenging the order.
The Supreme Court later permitted him to travel abroad for three weeks in September for medical treatment. The court directed that details of the doctor, hospital, accommodation and flight arrangements, along with his travel schedule, be provided to the concerned authorities in advance.
Under the court’s directions, Abhishek is required to return to India after completing his treatment within the permitted three-week period.
Against this backdrop, his Instagram post has generated fresh discussion in political circles. The caption has been interpreted by some observers as carrying a political undertone, although the MP himself has not indicated that the post was intended as a political statement.
Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, Ritabrata Banerjee, also took a dig at Abhishek’s US visit.
He said, “It is being heard that Abhishek is renting a villa in a luxurious place in New Jersey.” Ritabrata questioned why a villa was required for eye treatment.
–IANS
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