Calcutta High Court Imposes Strict Access Rules for ED-I-PAC Hearing
The Calcutta High Court has implemented strict restrictions for today's hearing on petitions related to Enforcement Directorate raids at I-PAC premises. Only counsels representing the parties will be physically present in the courtroom, with the entire proceedings being live-streamed for public access.
Previous Chaos Leads to New Regulations
Last Friday's scheduled hearing faced significant disruption when Justice Suvra Ghosh's courtroom became overcrowded and chaotic. The situation forced an adjournment of the matter until January 14. This incident prompted court authorities to establish clear guidelines for today's proceedings.
The Registrar General of the Calcutta High Court issued an administrative notice outlining the new regulations. The notice specifically states that only senior counsels, their assisting counsels, and the advocates on record for both parties will be permitted inside Court No. 05 during the hearing.
Live Streaming Arrangements Announced
To ensure transparency while maintaining order, the court has arranged for complete live streaming of the proceedings. The streaming will be recorded for future reference and documentation purposes. Anyone interested in following the case, except the petitioner and respondent themselves, can participate virtually through the live stream.
The notice clarifies: "If anybody (except the Petitioner & the Respondent) wants to participate in the Court proceeding of that particular matter, may join virtually."
Background of the Legal Battle
The hearing concerns petitions filed by both the Enforcement Directorate and the Trinamool Congress regarding raids conducted on January 8. ED officials searched the residence of I-PAC chief Prateek Jain and the political consultancy's office in Kolkata.
The Enforcement Directorate approached the High Court alleging interference from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and local police during their investigation. ED claims evidence was removed from the raid locations. Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress filed its own petition alleging that ED confiscated confidential party documents during the raids.
Legal Journey to Today's Hearing
After Justice Suvra Ghosh adjourned the matter last week, the Enforcement Directorate sought an urgent hearing before the acting chief justice. When this request wasn't accepted, ED approached the Supreme Court with two separate petitions.
The Trinamool Congress also moved a caveat in the Supreme Court to ensure they receive notice if any orders are passed. The matter remains pending before the apex court while today's hearing proceeds in Calcutta High Court under the new restricted format.
The court's administrative notice emphasizes that these measures aim to ensure "smooth functioning of the Court Proceedings" while hearing the matters numbered WPA No. 602 of 2026 with WPA No. 609 of 2026.
