Supreme Court's Ruling Poses Challenge for West Bengal's Trinamool Congress
The Supreme Court has dealt a significant blow to West Bengal's ruling Trinamool Congress by labeling allegations of obstruction against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as 'extremely serious'. The court's decision to review the role of state law enforcement in central investigations raises critical questions about the rule of law. As tensions escalate between state and central authorities, the ED's claims of interference during a raid on the I-PAC office add to the controversy. With the next hearing on the horizon, the legal and constitutional implications of this case are set to unfold, capturing national attention.
| Jan 15, 2026, 16:43 IST
Significant Setback for Trinamool Congress
Today, the ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal faced a major setback as the Supreme Court labeled the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) allegations as 'extremely serious'. The court noted that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee allegedly obstructed the ED's investigation. Furthermore, the court agreed to review whether state law enforcement agencies can interfere with a central agency's probe in serious criminal cases.
Court Orders Stay on FIR Against ED Officials
The Supreme Court has put a hold on the FIR filed against ED officials who conducted a raid on January 8 at the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) office and the residence of its director, Pratik Jain. The court has instructed the state police to preserve the CCTV footage from the raid.
Notice Issued to Key Officials
Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Vipul Pancholi issued notices to Chief Minister Banerjee, the West Bengal government, Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Kumar, and senior police officials regarding the ED's petitions, which request a CBI investigation into the alleged obstruction during the I-PAC raid.
Concerns Over Rule of Law
The bench expressed the need to review this issue to ensure adherence to the rule of law in the country, allowing each entity to operate independently to prevent criminals from finding refuge under the protection of state law enforcement agencies. They emphasized that unresolved questions could lead to chaos in various states.
Political Interference and Investigations
The Supreme Court clarified that while a central agency does not have the authority to interfere in a political party's electoral activities, it raises concerns if agencies are hindered from performing their duties under the guise of political activities.
Disruption in Calcutta High Court
The court expressed its distress over the chaos that erupted during the hearing at the Calcutta High Court regarding the ED's raids on I-PAC. The High Court had previously postponed the hearing until January 14, citing 'uncontrolled chaos' in the courtroom.
ED's Allegations of Interference
During the hearing, the ED claimed that the West Bengal government's interference during the raids reflects a shocking trend. They alleged that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee intervened, removed digital devices and crucial documents with police assistance, and forced investigators to cease their actions without any seizures.
Solicitor General's Statements
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the ED, highlighted the concerning trend of interference whenever legal authorities exercise their powers. He accused the Chief Minister of arriving at the raid site and taking away vital evidence. Mehta stated that despite prior notification to local police, a significant police presence arrived at the scene and removed materials without authority.
Opposition from Senior Advocates
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal opposed Mehta's petition, arguing that the matter should first be heard in the Calcutta High Court, adhering to the proper judicial hierarchy. He claimed that the ED was conducting parallel proceedings and refuted the allegations against the Chief Minister regarding the removal of digital devices.
Political Reactions
The BJP stated that the court's order is a significant blow to the Trinamool Congress. Party spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia questioned the lawlessness in West Bengal and demanded accountability from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Ongoing Tensions Between State and Central Authorities
This case has once again highlighted the ongoing tensions between the central and state governments. All eyes are now on the Supreme Court's next hearing, where the legal and constitutional aspects of this sensitive matter will be thoroughly examined.