Supreme Court Warns Mamata Banerjee of Serious Allegations in ED Probe Obstruction

The Supreme Court has highlighted serious allegations against West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee for allegedly obstructing an Enforcement Directorate probe. The court is reviewing if state law enforcement can interfere in central agency investigations following a January 8 raid on political consultancy I-PAC.

The Supreme Court has expressed serious concerns regarding allegations against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for purportedly obstructing the Enforcement Directorate's investigation into a coal-pilferage scandal. The apex court is deliberating on whether state agencies should have the authority to hinder central investigations.

This decision comes after an incident where ED officials were impeded during raids on the offices of the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) and its director Pratik Jain's residence in connection with the coal smuggling case. The Supreme Court has stayed FIRs against ED officials, directing their protection and preservation of CCTV footage related to the raids.

Highlighting potential legal discrepancies, the bench mentioned the importance of preventing interference by state law enforcement to uphold the rule of law. The investigation into the allegations will continue in February, amid turmoil over potential political and legal repercussions.

(With inputs from agencies.)