Solicitor General Tushar Mehta expressed dismay over the recent hindrances faced by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in West Bengal, labeling it as a situation where “mobocracy replaces democracy.” He highlighted that the ED encountered obstacles in carrying out its legal duties due to intimidation and force during search operations.
During the raids at the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) office and co-founder Pratik Jain’s residence in Kolkata, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and senior police officials reportedly disrupted the search process, leading to concerns of democratic principles being undermined. Mehta emphasized the need to address such incidents where Central agency officers were allegedly subjected to violence and obstruction in the state.
Mehta informed the Supreme Court that despite informing local authorities in advance, West Bengal officials unlawfully seized crucial evidence gathered during the operation, including digital devices and documents. He raised alarm over the confiscation of an ED official’s mobile phone and stressed that such actions not only constitute serious crimes but also negatively impact the morale of investigating officers.
Seeking the court’s intervention, Mehta urged for measures to be taken against the police officers involved in the obstruction, including potential legal actions and suspensions. On the other hand, West Bengal’s counsel, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, disputed the ED’s petition, arguing that the matter was already being addressed in the Calcutta High Court and accusing the ED of engaging in forum shopping.
