The Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out search operations at multiple locations linked to political consultancy firm Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) in Kolkata on Thursday, triggering sharp political reactions in West Bengal just months before the Assembly elections. According to sources, the agency also conducted searches at the residence of senior I-PAC functionary and co-founder Pratik Jain.
The action reportedly covered at least five locations across the city. While officials have not issued any formal statement so far, the searches are believed to be part of an ongoing money laundering investigation. The specific allegations or transactions under scrutiny remain unclear, adding to the political tension surrounding the operation.
Pratik Jain plays a key role in the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC), heading the party’s IT and data management operations in addition to his responsibilities at I-PAC. The timing of the searches—well ahead of the state elections—has fuelled allegations of political motivation from the ruling party.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticised the central agency’s move, alleging that ED officials attempted to access confidential party-related digital material during the searches. She claimed that sensitive organisational data, internal documents, and strategic information of the TMC were being targeted under the guise of an investigation.
Terming the raids an abuse of power, Banerjee accused the BJP-led Union government of using investigative agencies to intimidate political opponents. She questioned the agency’s mandate, arguing that collecting political party data had no connection with financial investigations. According to the Chief Minister, such actions undermine democratic processes and federal principles.
The opposition, however, dismissed Banerjee’s allegations. Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, criticised her decision to visit Jain’s residence during the ED operation. He described her presence, along with senior police officials, as an attempt to influence an independent investigation. Adhikari said interference by constitutional authorities in central agency proceedings was improper and could set a dangerous precedent.
