Heightened drama unfolded in India’s legal-political landscape as West Bengal government lodged a caveat with the Supreme Court over the contentious I-PAC raids. The strategic submission follows the Calcutta High Court’s mandate for probing ED’s actions, which the state deems unjustified and biased.
Unpacking the sequence: ED teams swooped down on I-PAC offices and residences last week, seizing documents purportedly evidencing FEMA violations and hawala-like fund flows. Linked to Prashant Kishor’s outfit that bolstered TMC’s campaign machinery, the raids have sparked cries of witch-hunt from ruling quarters.
The caveat ensures the apex court notifies the state before entertaining petitions from I-PAC or associates challenging the operations. It’s a classic defensive tactic, rooted in Order 15 Rule 1 of Supreme Court rules, designed to avert surprise rulings.
TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh termed it a ‘decisive counterpunch’ against ‘Modi regime’s hitmen.’ The petition reportedly contests the high court’s jurisdiction, arguing enforcement matters fall squarely under central purview without state interference.
Counterviews from BJP paint I-PAC as a conduit for illicit funds propping up regional satraps. ‘Time to clean the Augean stables of poll funding,’ quipped a senior leader. Legal circles buzz with anticipation of arguments on agency independence versus judicial oversight.
This isn’t isolated; it mirrors a pattern of Centre-state skirmishes via ED and CBI. With elections on horizon, the caveat amplifies narratives of democratic erosion. Observers note it could expedite Supreme Court intervention, clarifying boundaries in federal probes.
Ultimately, the move positions West Bengal proactively, transforming defense into offense. As filings stack up, the nation’s top court stands as final arbiter in this saga blending law, politics, and power dynamics.