BJP Labels Supreme Court Notice as 'Legal Slap' on Mamata Banerjee
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee following a Supreme Court notice. The notice relates to allegations of her interference in Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids at the offices of political consultancy firm I-PAC. BJP national spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia described the court's action as a "legal slap" for the Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo. He accused Banerjee of acting as if she is above the Constitution.
BJP Raises Concerns Over Rule of Law in West Bengal
Gaurav Bhatia addressed the media in Delhi on Wednesday. He emphasized the seriousness of the legal and constitutional questions involved. "If central agencies are doing their work, can they be obstructed through party activities?" he asked. Bhatia questioned whether agencies like the ED and CBI can be stopped by TMC supporters or state police following Banerjee's orders.
He expressed deep concern over reports of West Bengal Police officers, including those at the DGP level, attempting to hinder the ED's duties. "This is not just a matter concerning one state, but a question linked to the rule of law and the dignity of democracy," Bhatia added. He also raised alarms about what he called a "jungle raj" in West Bengal.
TMC Counters, Promises to Present More Information
In response, the TMC asserted that the matter is far from over. The party stated it plans to present "more information on the politically motivated ED raids" to the courts. TMC general secretary Abhishek Banerjee highlighted that the legal battle continues. He pointed out that I-PAC has offices in other cities like Hyderabad and Chennai, questioning why raids only occurred in West Bengal.
"We also have some information about the raids. If we place that information in front of the High Court and the Supreme Court, they will not find any escape route," Abhishek Banerjee said. He accused the ED of misleading the Supreme Court by filing petitions hastily. The TMC MP warned that all details would become public, allowing people to decide.
Allegations of Misuse of Public Money and Political Timing
BJP MLA and Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, made additional allegations. He called it "shameful" that the Chief Minister allegedly stole devices like mobile phones during the ED raids. Adhikari accused the TMC government of misusing public money to shield corruption. He claimed the government has hired expensive lawyers to contest the case.
TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh defended the party's stance. He argued that the ED's actions are politically motivated. Ghosh noted that the case was registered in 2020, questioning why the raids are happening now as Assembly polls approach. "Why target I-PAC director Pratik Jain now? Because he is helping with our election campaign," Ghosh stated. He suggested that campaign-related information might be at Jain's office or residence.
The political clash intensifies as both parties prepare for further legal and electoral battles. The Supreme Court's involvement adds a significant layer to this ongoing controversy.
