ED Conducts Raids in Kolkata: What’s Behind the Investigation?

The Enforcement Directorate has launched a significant investigation in Kolkata, conducting raids at the residence of Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha Biswas and a local businessman linked to the Sona Pappu syndicate case. Despite the ongoing search operations, the main suspect remains elusive. This article delves into the details of the raids, the connections to previous cases, and the implications for the upcoming Assembly elections. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 19, 2026, 10:59 IST

Enforcement Directorate's Actions in Kolkata

Kolkata: On Sunday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) executed searches at the residence of Shantanu Sinha Biswas, the Deputy Commissioner of Kolkata Police. The operation commenced at 7 AM at his home located on Fern Road in Ballygunge.

This search is linked to the ongoing investigation into the Sona Pappu syndicate case in South Kolkata's Ballygunge area. Notably, Biswas previously served as the Officer-in-Charge at the Kalighat police station, which is part of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Bhabanipur constituency.

In addition, the ED also targeted a businessman’s residence in the Behala locality of South Kolkata.

The main suspect, Sona Pappu, also known as Biswajit Poddar, remains at large following the Golpark clash incident. Despite being active on social media, he has not yet been apprehended.

Previously, an IPS officer was summoned for questioning regarding this case, and now the ED has escalated its efforts by searching the DCP's residence.

The agency also visited the home of businessman Joy Kamdar in Behala, who is reportedly involved in real estate promotion. His name surfaced during the investigation at Sona Pappu's residence, and he has been summoned for questioning multiple times but has failed to appear.

During the recent search, the ED recovered cash from Kamdar's home. Early Sunday, several ED teams, accompanied by central force personnel, arrived at his residence but faced delays in gaining entry.

In a broader context, the ED has been conducting searches across various locations in Kolkata related to illegal construction and syndicate activities. Recently, they also raided the residence of former state minister Partha Chatterjee in connection with a teacher recruitment corruption case.

Additionally, the Income Tax Department has conducted searches at the residence of outgoing Rashbehari MLA and Trinamool Congress candidate Debashis Kumar.

The upcoming Assembly elections are scheduled for April 23 and 29, with results expected on May 4.