ED Accuses Bengal Govt of Obstructing Probes in SC

Supreme Court hears claims of interference in central agency investigations

January 15, 2026: The Supreme Court on Tuesday heard arguments from the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which accused the West Bengal government of repeatedly obstructing investigations conducted by central agencies such as the ED and the CBI. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the ED, alleged that the Mamata Banerjee-led government, along with state police and ruling party workers, has followed a consistent pattern of interference during probe-related actions.

Citing recent developments, Mehta referred to incidents during ED searches linked to the alleged coal scam, claiming that agency officials were prevented from performing their lawful duties. He also recalled earlier instances in which CBI officers were allegedly harassed in the state, arguing that these episodes point to systemic resistance to central investigations. The ED further flagged an incident during a January 9 hearing at the Calcutta High Court, alleging disruption within court premises by lawyers linked to the Trinamool Congress legal cell.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the West Bengal government, refuted the allegations and said the matter had already been heard and disposed of by the High Court on January 14. The Supreme Court, however, remarked that courts cannot be turned into venues for protests and said it would continue to examine the issue.