Kolkata: In response to the recent Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids on political consultancy firm I-PAC, the West Bengal government has filed a caveat in the Calcutta High Court, seeking to ensure that its views are heard before any orders are passed in the case.
What is a Caveat?
A caveat is a legal notice filed to ensure that a party is given an opportunity to be heard before any judicial order or decision is issued in a case. By filing this, the West Bengal government aims to protect its interests regarding the ongoing investigation.
ED Raids and Allegations
On Thursday, the ED conducted raids in Kolkata linked to a multi-crore alleged coal theft and money laundering case. The searches targeted I-PAC offices as well as properties linked to the firm’s director, Prateek Jain.
CM Mamata Banerjee’s Involvement
According to reports, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally visited the sites of the raids, taking several documents and electronic devices with her. The Chief Minister accused the ED of overstepping its jurisdiction and conducting the operation without proper authority.
Request for CBI Probe
Following the raids, the ED approached the Calcutta High Court, requesting that a CBI investigation be initiated into Mamata Banerjee’s alleged actions. The ED claims that during the raids at Prateek Jain’s residence, the Chief Minister, with police assistance, allegedly removed certain objectionable documents from the agency’s possession.
Political Tensions Escalate
The filing of the caveat marks another chapter in the ongoing standoff between the state government and the central investigative agency. The case continues to attract significant political attention, with both parties emphasizing their legal and procedural positions.
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