Supreme Court Stays FIRs Against ED in West Bengal Political Drama

The Supreme Court has stayed FIRs against ED officers by West Bengal police, raising questions about state interference in central investigations. This follows Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's involvement in an ED raid. The apex court preserved CCTV footage and highlighted the larger implications involving political and investigative boundaries.

The Supreme Court stayed the FIRs lodged by West Bengal police against Enforcement Directorate (ED) officers amid raids on the political consultancy firm I-PAC in Kolkata. The top court expressed concerns over potential interference in central agency investigations.

On January 8, high political drama unfolded in West Bengal when Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee showed up at I-PAC's offices during ED's search, linked to a coal smuggling case. Allegations emerged of Banerjee removing key evidence from the premises, including significant documents and electronic devices.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta criticized Banerjee's actions, claiming a pattern of interference whenever central agencies operate. He urged the court to ensure officers' rights remain protected, while Mamata Banerjee's counsel argued the petitions lacked merit and should be evaluated by the High Court first.

(With inputs from agencies.)