In a dramatic twist to the ongoing confrontation between the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the West Bengal government, the central agency has approached the Supreme Court seeking the suspension of state Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Kumar. The plea comes amid allegations of interference in raids conducted on political consultancy firm I-PAC.
Raid on I-PAC Sparks Controversy
The controversy erupted on January 8 when ED teams raided premises linked to I-PAC in Kolkata while investigating alleged financial irregularities. The operation reportedly turned chaotic as the agency accused Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and senior police officials of obstructing its work. Banerjee was allegedly present at the premises and is said to have removed files from her office, creating a tense atmosphere that hindered the investigation.
West Bengal Police FIR Against ED
In response, the West Bengal Police filed an FIR against ED officials, calling the agency’s actions discriminatory. The escalating confrontation between the central investigative body and the state police reflects growing tensions over federal investigations in the state.
ED Plea Highlights Alleged Sabotage
In its plea before the Supreme Court, the ED accused several high-ranking officials—DGP Rajiv Kumar, Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma, and Deputy Commissioner Priyabrat Roy—of obstructing its investigation. The agency has sought their immediate suspension and urged the court to transfer the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to prevent any further alleged state-level interference.
Supreme Court Hearing Today
The Supreme Court bench, headed by Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Vipul M. Pancholi, is scheduled to hear the matter today. Legal experts suggest that the case underscores rising Centre-state tensions, especially in West Bengal, which has previously resisted federal probes into political matters.
High-Stakes Political Drama Unfolds
With both the ED and the West Bengal government entrenched in a high-stakes confrontation, attention is firmly fixed on the apex court. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the investigation into I-PAC and for the broader balance of power between central investigative agencies and state governments.