Police Launch Investigation Into Unidentified ED Personnel in I-PAC Raid

Kolkata Police have initiated an investigation to identify Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials allegedly involved in the theft of documents during recent raids at the residence of Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) director Pratik Jain and the firm's office in the city. The probe began on January 10, 2026, following the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against unknown personnel from the central agency. A senior police officer confirmed that efforts are underway to ascertain the identities of the ED team members present at both locations during the operation conducted on January 8, 2026.

The raids, part of the ED's ongoing probe into an alleged coal smuggling scam, sparked immediate controversy when I-PAC and associated parties claimed that physical documents and electronic devices were forcibly removed from the premises in the presence of senior West Bengal government officials. The consultancy firm, which has played a key role in election strategy for the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), alleged interference and obstruction, prompting the state police to register the case under relevant sections for theft and criminal breach of trust. The FIR names no specific individuals, focusing instead on "unknown ED officials" to allow for a detailed inquiry.

This development marks a significant escalation in the standoff between the West Bengal government and the central investigative agency. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's administration has accused the ED of politically motivated actions ahead of the 2026 state assembly elections, while the ED has countered by approaching the Supreme Court, alleging deliberate obstruction by state authorities during the searches. The parallel legal battles—one in the apex court by the ED and the other a state-level police probe—highlight deepening federal-state tensions over jurisdiction and authority in high-profile investigations.

Also Read: ED Complains to Supreme Court Over Alleged Interference by Mamata Banerjee

The Kolkata Police investigation is expected to involve scrutiny of raid-related records, witness statements, and any available CCTV footage from the sites. Authorities have emphasized that the probe will be conducted impartially to establish the sequence of events and determine if any cognizable offense was committed by central agency personnel. The case has drawn attention from legal experts, who note the rarity of state police probing central officials in the course of their duties, potentially raising questions about interagency protocol and constitutional boundaries.

As the inquiry progresses, both sides remain firm in their positions. The ED maintains that its actions were lawful and in pursuit of evidence in a major economic offense case, while the West Bengal government insists on accountability for any alleged misconduct during the operation. With the political temperature rising in the run-up to elections, the outcome of this identification process could influence the broader narrative surrounding central agencies' operations in opposition-ruled states.

Also Read: Himanta Sarma Criticises Mamata Banerjee Over Conduct During ED Raids Linked to I-PAC