Kolkata Police Investigate Alleged Document Theft by ED Officials

Introduction to the Incident

KOLKATA: The local police have initiated a probe to identify Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials and Central Armed Police Force personnel allegedly involved in the "theft of documents" during searches at I-PAC chief Pratik Jain’s residence on Loudon Street and the consultancy’s office in Salt Lake on January 8.

FIRs Filed by CM Mamata Banerjee

This investigation follows two FIRs lodged by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the Shakespeare Sarani police station in south-central Kolkata and the Electronic Complex police station in Salt Lake.

Importance of CCTV Footage

Investigators are currently collecting and analyzing CCTV footage from both locations, emphasizing its significance after the ED sought a court order to freeze the recordings. The digital video recorder from Jain’s Loudon Street building has been seized and sent to a forensic lab to help establish the identities of those allegedly involved in an altercation with the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for the South division.

Gathering Evidence and Statements

According to police sources, the facility manager of the building has been asked to submit the names of employees on duty on January 8. Additionally, statements from Jain and his family will be taken as necessary. Officers from the Shakespeare Sarani police station visited Jain’s residence on Saturday morning to collect CCTV footage and DVR recordings. They have also spoken with guards and the housekeeper present during the search and intend to question maintenance staff soon.

Investigating I-PAC Employees in Salt Lake

In Salt Lake, Bidhannagar police are preparing to question I-PAC employees who were present in the office during the search. A police source stated, "Once we identify central agency personnel, notices will be issued as required for statements. Every step will be according to legal protocols and strictly need-based."

Details of the ED Searches

On January 8, two ED teams arrived at Loudon Street and Salt Lake around 6:30 AM for searches related to an alleged coal smuggling case. Police reported that the ED teams arrived at approximately 9 AM but were allegedly denied entry. A police sergeant was reportedly pushed aside, followed by an incident involving DCP Priyabrata Roy, who police claim was manhandled. The ED has denied these allegations.

Intervention by Police Commissioner and CM Banerjee

Later, Police Commissioner Manoj Verma arrived at the Loudon Street site, shortly followed by CM Banerjee, who personally removed documents, files, and laptops from Jain’s residence during the ongoing ED actions.

Concerns Regarding Confidentiality of Documents

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has raised concerns about access to confidential party materials connected to the SIR of electoral rolls, including booth-level agent details, as well as documents related to preparations for the upcoming 2026 Bengal Assembly elections during the ED’s search.

Conclusion

As the investigation unfolds, the implications of this incident will likely resonate throughout the political landscape in West Bengal. The ongoing scrutiny of these events emphasizes the critical intersection between law enforcement and political accountability in India.