The Supreme Court on Monday adjourned the hearing on the Enforcement Directorate’s (ED) plea seeking a CBI probe into alleged “interference” by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in connection with the I-PAC raids matter. The case will now be taken up on February 18.
The adjournment came after Advocate Preetika Dwivedi made an oral mention before the Bench, informing the court that senior advocate Kapil Sibal, who is representing the West Bengal side, was unwell and unable to appear for the proceedings. Taking note of the submission, the court agreed to defer the hearing to a later date.
The ED’s petition relates to allegations surrounding obstruction and interference during investigative actions linked to I-PAC (Indian Political Action Committee). The agency has sought directions for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the circumstances surrounding the episode, arguing that an independent investigation is necessary.
Counsel appearing in the matter briefly outlined the urgency from the petitioner’s side, but the Bench observed that since the principal counsel for the respondent was unavailable due to health reasons, it would be appropriate to grant time and ensure a fair hearing for all parties.
The matter has drawn political attention given the sensitivities involved and the agencies named in the plea. Legal observers note that the next hearing is expected to focus on the maintainability of the ED’s request and the scope of any potential court-monitored probe.
Further proceedings are scheduled for February 18.
