The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at the Kolkata office of the political consultancy firm Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) and the residence of its director, Pratik Jain, on Thursday. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into a money laundering case.
I-PAC's Official Response
On Friday, I-PAC released a formal statement on its social media platform X, addressing the previous day's events. The firm described the searches as a "difficult and unfortunate day for a professional organisation." While asserting its commitment to legal cooperation, I-PAC expressed deep concern over the implications of the action.
"We believe this raises serious concerns and sets an unsettling precedent," the statement read. It further added, "Regardless, we have extended full cooperation and will continue to do so as required, engaging with the process in complete accordance and respect for the law."
Firm Reiterates Professional Integrity and Non-Partisan Role
In its detailed response, I-PAC strongly defended its operational ethos. The consultancy emphasized that it has always upheld the "highest standards of professional integrity." The firm stated its resolve to continue work "unfazed and unperturbed," guided by its founding principles of consistency and accountability.
Significantly, I-PAC clarified its position in the political ecosystem. The firm noted that it does not contest elections or hold political office. Its role, it stated, is confined to "transparent and professional political consulting, uninfluenced by differences in political ideology."
To underscore its cross-party work, I-PAC listed several political entities it has collaborated with, spanning the ideological spectrum. These include the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Trinamool Congress (TMC), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), YSR Congress, Telangana Rashtra Samithi (now BRS), Janata Dal (United), and the Shiv Sena.
Legal and Political Context
The raids have swiftly entered the legal and political arena. The action has led to counter-petitions being filed by both the central investigating agency and the Trinamool Congress in the Calcutta High Court, indicating the potential for a protracted legal battle surrounding the probe's proceedings.
The development places a spotlight on the growing sphere of professional political consultancy in India and its interactions with law enforcement agencies. I-PAC's statement, balancing cooperation with criticism, sets the stage for further scrutiny of the case's legal merits and its broader impact on the political consulting industry.
