TMC demands “immediate release” of I-PAC co-founder, calls ED action “electoral sabotage”

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Tuesday demanded the immediate and unconditional release of an I-PAC co-founder arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case linked to alleged coal pilferage. The party also called for the withdrawal of central agencies from West Bengal ahead of the upcoming elections, alleging misuse of investigative powers for political purposes.

Addressing a press conference in Kolkata, TMC MP Derek O’Brien launched a sharp attack on the ED, claiming that the timing of the arrest—just days before polling—raises serious concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. He described the action as “electoral sabotage” and accused central agencies of interfering in the democratic framework.

O’Brien further criticised the functioning of the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), alleging that the agency operates with political bias. He claimed that opposition leaders facing corruption cases often receive relief after joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), suggesting selective enforcement. Using a sharp analogy, he remarked that such leaders are “washed clean” once they switch sides.

The ED had arrested the I-PAC co-founder as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged financial irregularities linked to coal pilferage in West Bengal. The case originates from an earlier FIR and has expanded into a wider probe into suspected money laundering networks. The arrest has now intensified the political confrontation in the state, with TMC positioning it as a key campaign issue ahead of voting.