The Kolkata Police on Saturday launched an investigation into the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) search operations at the Loudon Street residence of Prateek Jain, head of political consulting firm I-PAC, and the company’s office in Salt Lake Sector V. The probe follows separate complaints filed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the Shakespeare Sarani police station and the Electronic Complex police station in Salt Lake.
According to police sources, the investigation process has already begun based on these complaints.
The incident dates back to early Thursday morning, when two ED teams simultaneously arrived at Jain’s Loudon Street residence and the I-PAC office as part of an investigation linked to an alleged coal smuggling case. Local police reached the locations later but were allegedly prevented from entering the premises.
Police sources claimed that around 9 am, a sergeant from the local police station was stopped from entering the residence, following which a scuffle allegedly took place. Later, Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Priyabrata Roy arrived at the spot but was also unable to gain entry. Eventually, Police Commissioner Manoj Verma reached Loudon Street. Soon after, Mamata herself arrived at the residence.
It has been alleged that during the ED search, the Chief Minister removed documents, files and laptops from Jain’s house and accused the central agency of stealing the ruling party’s election strategy documents. The police stated that a suo motu case was registered on Thursday night against the ED, accusing it of obstructing a police investigation. On Friday morning, the Chief Minister formally lodged a complaint in the matter.
As part of the probe, the police collected CCTV footage from Jain’s residence on Saturday. The process of recording statements began, with investigators questioning individuals present during the ED search. Police may also question members of Jain’s family. Statements have already been recorded from the security guard and domestic help at the residence, sources said.
Investigators are examining the exact time the ED team entered the house, the number of officials involved, and the manner in which the search was conducted. ED officials may be summoned for questioning if required.
The controversy has also escalated into a legal battle. The ED has moved the Calcutta High Court alleging obstruction of its investigation, while the TMC has filed a case against the central government. Both matters were listed for hearing on Friday before Justice Shubhra Ghosh’s bench, but proceedings were disrupted, leading to an adjournment. The cases are now scheduled to be heard on January 14.
Also read: ‘I acted as party chief during raids’, Mamata slams BJP, ED
Follow us
