ED Chief Rahul Navin Conducts High-Level Review Meeting in Kolkata Amid Ongoing Controversy
In a significant development, Enforcement Directorate (ED) chief Rahul Navin arrived in Kolkata on Thursday night and convened a high-level meeting with senior officials of the central agency on Friday. This visit comes at a critical juncture, following recent searches conducted by the ED at the office of political consultancy firm I-PAC and the residence of its director, Pratik Jain.
Detailed Status Reports Presented on Multiple Cases
Sources within the ED revealed that during the meeting, officials provided comprehensive status reports on various ongoing investigations. Key cases discussed included those related to illegal coal and sand mining operations, as well as the municipal cash-for-jobs scandal. The discussions aimed to assess progress and strategize next steps in these high-profile matters.
Tensions with Bengal Government Escalate Over I-PAC Searches
Navin's visit to Kolkata is set against the backdrop of a growing tussle between the ED and the West Bengal government. The agency had previously moved both the Calcutta High Court and the Supreme Court regarding the I-PAC searches, alleging that state police officials obstructed ED personnel during the operation. The ED described this interference as being in flagrant and blatant disregard to law, highlighting the escalating legal and administrative conflicts.
Future Course of Action to Be Charted on Saturday
Senior ED officials are scheduled to hold another meeting on Saturday to outline the future course of action based on the instructions provided by Rahul Navin. This follow-up session is expected to focus on implementing strategic directives and enhancing coordination among agency teams involved in the investigations.
The high-level deliberations underscore the ED's intensified efforts to address complex cases in Kolkata, amidst ongoing challenges and political friction. The outcomes of these meetings could have significant implications for the agency's operations in the region and its broader mandate to combat financial crimes.
