After recent controversies surrounding the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) operations at the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) office and co-founder Pratik Jain’s residence, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has been assigned security duties at the ED’s office in Kolkata. Previously, a private security agency managed the security at the Salt Lake office, but now, 12 CRPF personnel, six at each entry gate, have taken over the responsibility. This move comes amidst the ED’s involvement in high-profile money laundering investigations in West Bengal.
A specialized unit of the CRPF, the Rapid Action Force (RAF), has also been stationed at the CRPF camp in Rajarhat, Kolkata. Although currently on standby, this unit has been brought in for specific purposes, including escorting central investigating agency officials during sensitive operations and handling situations of resistance during raids. The decision to deploy CRPF personnel and keep the special unit on reserve was made by the Union Home Ministry in response to the recent controversies surrounding the ED’s actions at the I-PAC office and Pratik Jain’s residence.
The CRPF’s presence at the ED’s Salt Lake office aims to safeguard crucial documents related to ongoing investigations. Additionally, the deployment of the RAF unit underscores the government’s preparedness to address any challenges faced by central agency officials during operations. These measures reflect a proactive approach by the authorities to ensure the security and integrity of investigative processes in the region.
