The Calcutta High Court conducted a hearing on Wednesday for petitions filed by the Enforcement Directorate and the Trinamool Congress. These petitions relate to recent raids executed by the central agency at the offices of I-PAC, a political consultancy firm.
ED Seeks Adjournment, TMC Presses for Data Protection
During the proceedings, the Enforcement Directorate requested an adjournment. The agency informed the court that it has moved the Supreme Court regarding this matter. Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress strongly advocated for its plea. The party seeks court protection for its election-related data that was seized during the raids.
TMC Accuses ED of Bullying Tactics
The Trinamool Congress labeled the ED's actions as an extraordinary sign of bullying. The party expressed deep concern over the potential misuse of sensitive political information.
ED Counters TMC's Claims
Opposing the TMC's plea, the Enforcement Directorate presented several arguments to the court:
- The search was conducted at a location different from TMC offices
- The agency questioned how another political party could claim ownership of data found at a third-party premises
- ED emphasized that this is not how standard investigative procedures work
- The agency clarified that the raid had no direct connection with the Trinamool Congress
- ED pointed out that the individual whose premises were searched has not approached the court
The Enforcement Directorate made a serious allegation against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The agency claimed she committed an offense by allegedly interfering with an ongoing investigation.
Background of the Legal Battle
The Enforcement Directorate has formally requested a CBI inquiry against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The agency alleges interference in their ongoing probe and demands the return of seized documents and electronic devices.
Simultaneously, the Trinamool Congress approached the court seeking specific directions. The party wants to prevent the agency from leaking any party-related information obtained during the raids.
Following these developments, the Enforcement Directorate moved the Supreme Court. In response, the West Bengal government filed a caveat in the apex court to ensure they receive notice of any proceedings.
Court Implements Special Hearing Arrangements
Earlier proceedings in this case faced significant disruption due to courtroom chaos. This involved both the ED-I-PAC case and the Trinamool Congress's counter petition.
To address these challenges, the Calcutta High Court issued specific orders on Tuesday:
- Wednesday's hearing would be conducted via live streaming
- Physical presence in the courtroom would be restricted to lawyers arguing the matter
- Only counsels representing the Enforcement Directorate and the TMC would be permitted inside courtroom number five
The court implemented these measures specifically to ensure smooth conduct of the proceedings. This decision reflects the high-profile nature of the case and the need for orderly judicial processes.
