TMC Claims Possession of Evidence Against ED Officials
Trinamool Congress on Thursday asserted it holds concrete evidence against Enforcement Directorate officials. The party plans to present this evidence before the court at an appropriate time. This announcement came after the Supreme Court stayed Kolkata Police's FIR against ED officials.
Abhishek Banerjee's Strong Statements
Speaking to reporters in Nandigram, TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee made several significant points:
- He urged everyone to read ED's panchnama carefully
- He emphasized examining what ED officers themselves recorded during searches
- He confirmed TMC possesses certain documents and evidence
- He warned those making false statements before Supreme Court
Abhishek Banerjee stated clearly, "We also have certain evidence that will be placed before the court at the appropriate time." He added that if TMC files a contempt of court petition with their evidence, those making false statements will have nowhere to hide.
BJP's Sharp Criticism of Mamata Government
BJP responded strongly to the Supreme Court's observations. Party spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia called the court's decision a "slap on the face of her government." He made serious allegations against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Bhatia accused Mamata Banerjee of multiple wrongdoings:
- Spreading anarchy across the state
- Destroying crucial evidence in cases
- Threatening ED officials during investigations
- Playing with legal procedures
- Weakening constitutional principles
The BJP spokesperson claimed Mamata Banerjee has become "the embodiment of anarchy." He said the Supreme Court's observations represent a serious indictment of her conduct as chief minister.
Selective Targeting Allegations
Abhishek Banerjee raised questions about ED's investigation patterns. He pointed out that I-PAC, the political consultancy firm, maintains offices in multiple cities including Hyderabad and Chennai. The organization has three other directors besides those in Bengal.
"Yet, searches were conducted only in Bengal," Banerjee noted, suggesting selective targeting by central agencies. This statement highlights TMC's allegation of biased investigation against West Bengal specifically.
Legal Battle Continues
The TMC leader clarified that while everyone must comply with the Supreme Court's interim order, the legal battle is far from over. He explained that the court will decide whether to extend or repeal this interim order. The discretion rests entirely with the judiciary.
Abhishek Banerjee also mentioned that the Supreme Court will determine where the case should be heard. "The SC will also decide if the case will be heard at SC or HC," he said. He added that ED appears reluctant to have the matter heard in the High Court.
Historical Context of Allegations
BJP spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia provided historical context to support his allegations. He referred to several past incidents involving West Bengal government's interactions with central agencies. These include the commotion caused by crowds at Calcutta High Court and alleged biased interventions in cases being investigated by CBI and NIA.
The political confrontation between TMC and BJP continues to intensify as both parties prepare for prolonged legal battles. Each side claims to possess evidence supporting their position while accusing the other of procedural violations and political motivations.