The Supreme Court on Wednesday delivered a sharp rebuke while hearing a case related to an Enforcement Directorate (ED) raid, issuing a strong message that lawlessness cannot be allowed under any circumstances. The remarks were widely seen as a clear warning to the West Bengal government led by Mamata Banerjee.
During the proceedings, the apex court made it clear that central investigative agencies must be allowed to carry out their legal duties without obstruction. The bench observed that if officials of statutory bodies such as the ED are prevented from performing their work, it would amount to a breakdown of the rule of law. The court emphasised that political considerations cannot override constitutional authority.
The case stems from an alleged incident in which ED officials faced resistance during a raid linked to a financial investigation in West Bengal. The court noted that irrespective of political differences between the Centre and the state, the safety and freedom of central agency officers must be ensured.
The Supreme Court of India further stated that state governments are duty-bound to provide protection to central agencies operating within their jurisdiction. Any failure to do so, the bench warned, could invite serious consequences and judicial intervention.
The observation comes at a time of heightened tensions between the Trinamool Congress government and central agencies, with the state leadership often accusing the Centre of misusing investigative bodies for political purposes. However, the court’s comments underline that such disputes cannot justify interference in lawful investigations.
The matter is expected to be heard further, with the court seeking detailed responses on steps taken to ensure that such incidents are not repeated in the future.
