ED Raids on I-PAC Trigger Political Storm in Delhi and Kolkata
Political tensions escalated sharply after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids on the Kolkata office of I-PAC, the political consultancy firm closely associated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The action sparked widespread protests, culminating in the detention of TMC MPs Mahua Moitra and Derek O’Brien outside Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s office in Delhi.
The high-voltage demonstration saw party leaders and supporters raising slogans accusing the central government of targeting opposition parties through investigative agencies ahead of crucial elections.
Why the I-PAC Raids Matter
I-PAC plays a key role in election strategy, data analytics, IT operations, and media management for the TMC. According to party leaders, the ED action involved the seizure of electronic devices, data drives, and political material related to campaign planning.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee personally visited the raided office, alleging that the move was aimed at disrupting the party’s electoral preparations before the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections. The TMC has called the raids a deliberate attempt to misuse central agencies for political gain.
Mahua Moitra and Derek O’Brien Detained
During the protest in Delhi, Mahua Moitra and Derek O’Brien were detained by Delhi Police as demonstrators attempted to march towards the Home Minister’s office. Protesters carried placards accusing the BJP leadership of “dirty politics” and targeting Bengal’s democratic mandate.
Speaking to the media, Mahua Moitra strongly defended her party, stating that the ED action was meant to weaken the opposition’s campaign infrastructure. Other TMC leaders echoed similar views, warning that such actions would only strengthen public support for Mamata Banerjee.
TMC vs Centre: Growing Political Confrontation
The incident reflects a deepening political confrontation between the TMC and the central government. The party argues that investigative agencies are being selectively used against opposition leaders, while the Centre maintains that probes are conducted strictly as per law.
As Parliament sessions continue and election season approaches, the standoff is expected to intensify, keeping national attention firmly on the Delhi–Kolkata political axis.
Bigger Picture Ahead of West Bengal Elections
With elections on the horizon, the ED raids and subsequent protests are likely to become a major campaign issue in West Bengal. The TMC is positioning the episode as a fight for federalism and democratic rights, while the BJP is expected to counter with claims of lawful investigation.
Conclusion
The detention of senior TMC MPs and the ED raids on I-PAC have added fuel to an already charged political climate. Whether viewed as a legitimate probe or political vendetta, the episode underscores how central agencies, opposition politics, and elections are increasingly intertwined in India’s political landscape.
