Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her behavior during and after the recent Enforcement Directorate (ED) raid at the Kolkata office of I-PAC. Sarma expressed serious concerns about Banerjee’s actions, including taking official files and using inappropriate language against the Union Home Minister. He emphasized that such conduct by a Chief Minister could weaken public trust in democratic institutions.
The controversy arose following ED searches at I-PAC’s Kolkata office, after which Banerjee personally visited the premises and accused the agency of political bias. The Trinamool Congress has alleged a misuse of central agencies to target Opposition figures. Banerjee’s party has taken legal action, challenging the raid’s legality and the conduct of central agencies, setting the stage for a legal showdown between the Trinamool-led West Bengal government and the Centre.
Meanwhile, the ED defended its actions as lawful and evidence-based, asserting its independence from political influence. The agency had sought an FIR against Banerjee from the Calcutta High Court, but the plea for an urgent hearing was denied. The court proceedings are scheduled to continue on January 14, highlighting the escalating tensions between the Trinamool Congress and the Centre.
