The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has approached the Calcutta High Court with a serious allegation against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The central probe agency has claimed that evidence was removed from the premises of the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) during coordinated raids on January 8, 2026.
Details of the Allegation and Raids
In its submission to the court, the ED stated that crucial material was taken away from the scene, allegedly under the instructions of the Chief Minister. This development adds a significant political dimension to the ongoing investigation. The searches were part of a widespread operation targeting 10 locations across two states.
The agency clarified that six of these locations were in West Bengal, while the remaining four were in the national capital, Delhi. The raids are connected to a money laundering probe, though the specific case details underpinning the search remain undisclosed.
Political Repercussions and Legal Battle
This move by the ED is set to intensify the already heated political clash between the central government and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) administration in West Bengal. The allegation directly implicating the sitting Chief Minister in obstructing an investigation is unprecedented and is likely to trigger a major legal and political showdown.
The Calcutta High Court is now expected to examine the ED's plea urgently. The court's decision on how to proceed with these allegations could have far-reaching consequences for the probe and the political landscape in the state.
What Happens Next?
All eyes are now on the Calcutta High Court as it considers the ED's application. The agency's claim, if substantiated, could lead to serious legal complications for Mamata Banerjee and her associates. Conversely, the TMC has consistently labeled such actions as politically motivated vendettas.
This case underscores the deepening tensions between central investigative agencies and opposition-ruled states. The outcome will be closely watched as a test of institutional independence and the rule of law amidst high-stakes politics.
