The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has requested the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe the alleged obstruction of its recent search operations at I-PAC in Kolkata by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and senior state officials. The agency described the incident as part of a recurring pattern of interference in investigations by the state leadership.
Allegations by the ED
The ED claims that during raids related to a multi-state money laundering case involving illegal coal mining, evidence worth Rs. 2,742.32 crore was being investigated.
Officers were reportedly searching the residence of I-PAC founder Pratik Jain, where proceeds of crime totaling over Rs. 20 crore were allegedly found.
According to the ED, Mamata Banerjee, along with the Chief Secretary, West Bengal DGP, Kolkata Police Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, and other officials, entered the premises during the raid, intimidating officers and seizing files and electronic evidence.
The ED said the seized material was lawfully collected under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act and had no connection to any political party activities.
Pattern of Interference
The ED stated that this is not an isolated incident, claiming a history of the Chief Minister and senior police officials misusing state machinery to obstruct central investigations.
The plea highlighted that prior attempts to register FIRs against ED officers were allegedly used to intimidate officials and disrupt investigations.
The agency also alleged that CCTV footage capturing illegal activities was taken away by local police during the course of investigation.
Court Proceedings Disrupted
ED said the interference extended to the Calcutta High Court, where supporters of the Chief Minister reportedly created commotion, forcing the court to adjourn proceedings, citing an unconducive environment.
Messages circulated among party members reportedly encouraged large gatherings at the court to hinder judicial proceedings.
Legal Implications
The ED referred to sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including theft in a dwelling, intimidation, and obstruction of lawful authority, arguing that the actions of the Chief Minister and senior officials constitute serious cognizable offences.
The agency emphasized that due to the alleged involvement of top state authorities, approaching local police for an FIR would likely result in a compromised investigation, hence the need for a CBI-led probe.
ED’s Stand
The ED called the incident a blatant violation of the rule of law and stressed the need for intervention by the highest court to restore authority to lawful investigative agencies.
Officials said such a step is necessary to prevent any political leader from taking the law into their own hands, obstructing justice, or creating public spectacle while committing offences.
Background
The I-PAC raids are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering linked to illegal coal mining. The case has attracted national attention due to the involvement of senior political leaders and state machinery.
