April 20, 2026

NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee claimed that her flight was held for half-an-hour because of the “non-cooperation from central agencies” which hampered her travel plans during the poll season. Adding that the CMs should get “some priority”, she alleged that the BJP leaders get to leave.”Today I was held up in the runway for half an hour on my way back. Yesterday, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s helicopter was stopped at Jhargram for 40 minutes,” she said, addressing a rally in Belaghata. Watch In Baharampur, Adhir Targets Mamata and Humayun Over Riot Allegations; TMC Stays Unfazed Banerjee claimed that she has been facing “non-cooperation from Central agencies such as the railways and aviation department in the past one month”.”I think chief ministers should always get some priority. But here, some aviation officials seem to have forgotten that. They (BJP leaders) will leave, but you (Central officials) have to stay with us,” PTI quoted her saying.The Bengal CM did not elaborate on the charges. This is not the first time that Banerjee has accused central agencies of biasness. She has accused EC and ED of the same at several poll rallies.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia, Ukraine Security Pact In Works? Zelenskyy Signals Big Move Amid Russia Ukraine WarUnmanned Mine Counter Measure Vessels Take Lead In Demining OperationsIndia-South Korea Mega Deal: PM Modi & Lee Jae Myung Target 50 Billion Trade, Boost TiesFire Erupts At Rajasthan’s HPCL Refinery Ahead Of PM Modi’s Launch EventNSA Doval Meets Top Saudi Leaders, Focus On Security And EnergyFact Check: No, Indian Navy Did NOT Detain Somali Pirates In Viral VideoTMC Hits Out At PM Modi Over Jhalmuri Stop, Claims Hemant Soren Forced To ReturnTMC vs Himanta Biswa Sarma Erupts As Mamata Banerjee Row Sparks Election Commission ComplaintManipur Erupts In Anger As No Arrests Made After 5 Killings, Protests Turn Violent‘Ripple Impact On India…’: Misri After Indian Tankers Hit In Hormuz123Photostories9 best natural sweetener substitutes for processed sugar3 signs of a loyal partner, as revealed by Gauranga DasThese are the only 5 nations in the world that begin with letter “D” and each tells a unique storyAre you a traveller who loves to buy gold? 5 largest gold-producing countries in the world where gold can be cheaperPriyanka and Rahul Gandhi spotted relishing Gelato: What is Gelato and how is it different from ice cream and other frozen desserts10 Vedic baby girl names that begin with letter VJitendra Kumar, Aniruddh Agarwal, Amol Parashar to Vipul Goyal: Actors who swapped engineering degrees for stardomWhy non-vegetarian thali has become cheaper than vegetarian thaliDoes your home breathe? 5 lessons to learn from the timeless beauty of Chettinad interiorsGurgaon SPR bottleneck sparks urgent road expansion, missing link reopened123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingBan vs NZKanpur MurderAndhra Pradesh Bomb ExplodeKanpur Rape CaseTCS Nashik CaseJammu Bus AccidentAndhra Pradesh MurderLucknow Girl MurderTamil Nadu Firecracker Unit BlastJapan Earthquake

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NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee claimed that her flight was held for half-an-hour because of the “non-cooperation from central agencies” which hampered her travel plans during the poll season. Adding that the CMs should get “some priority”, she alleged that the BJP leaders get to leave.”Today I was held up in the runway for half an hour on my way back. Yesterday, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s helicopter was stopped at Jhargram for 40 minutes,” she said, addressing a rally in Belaghata. Watch In Baharampur, Adhir Targets Mamata and Humayun Over Riot Allegations; TMC Stays Unfazed Banerjee claimed that she has been facing “non-cooperation from Central agencies such as the railways and aviation department in the past one month”.”I think chief ministers should always get some priority. But here, some aviation officials seem to have forgotten that. They (BJP leaders) will leave, but you (Central officials) have to stay with us,” PTI quoted her saying.The Bengal CM did not elaborate on the charges. This is not the first time that Banerjee has accused central agencies of biasness. She has accused EC and ED of the same at several poll rallies.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia, Ukraine Security Pact In Works? Zelenskyy Signals Big Move Amid Russia Ukraine WarUnmanned Mine Counter Measure Vessels Take Lead In Demining OperationsIndia-South Korea Mega Deal: PM Modi & Lee Jae Myung Target 50 Billion Trade, Boost TiesFire Erupts At Rajasthan’s HPCL Refinery Ahead Of PM Modi’s Launch EventNSA Doval Meets Top Saudi Leaders, Focus On Security And EnergyFact Check: No, Indian Navy Did NOT Detain Somali Pirates In Viral VideoTMC Hits Out At PM Modi Over Jhalmuri Stop, Claims Hemant Soren Forced To ReturnTMC vs Himanta Biswa Sarma Erupts As Mamata Banerjee Row Sparks Election Commission ComplaintManipur Erupts In Anger As No Arrests Made After 5 Killings, Protests Turn Violent‘Ripple Impact On India…’: Misri After Indian Tankers Hit In Hormuz123Photostories9 best natural sweetener substitutes for processed sugar3 signs of a loyal partner, as revealed by Gauranga DasThese are the only 5 nations in the world that begin with letter “D” and each tells a unique storyAre you a traveller who loves to buy gold? 5 largest gold-producing countries in the world where gold can be cheaperPriyanka and Rahul Gandhi spotted relishing Gelato: What is Gelato and how is it different from ice cream and other frozen desserts10 Vedic baby girl names that begin with letter VJitendra Kumar, Aniruddh Agarwal, Amol Parashar to Vipul Goyal: Actors who swapped engineering degrees for stardomWhy non-vegetarian thali has become cheaper than vegetarian thaliDoes your home breathe? 5 lessons to learn from the timeless beauty of Chettinad interiorsGurgaon SPR bottleneck sparks urgent road expansion, missing link reopened123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingBan vs NZKanpur MurderAndhra Pradesh Bomb ExplodeKanpur Rape CaseTCS Nashik CaseJammu Bus AccidentAndhra Pradesh MurderLucknow Girl MurderTamil Nadu Firecracker Unit BlastJapan Earthquake


'CMs should get some priority': Mamata Banerjee claims flight held up for 30 mins; 'non-cooperation' from central agencies

NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee claimed that her flight was held for half-an-hour because of the “non-cooperation from central agencies” which hampered her travel plans during the poll season. Adding that the CMs should get “some priority”, she alleged that the BJP leaders get to leave.“Today I was held up in the runway for half an hour on my way back. Yesterday, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s helicopter was stopped at Jhargram for 40 minutes,” she said, addressing a rally in Belaghata.

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In Baharampur, Adhir Targets Mamata and Humayun Over Riot Allegations; TMC Stays Unfazed

Banerjee claimed that she has been facing “non-cooperation from Central agencies such as the railways and aviation department in the past one month”.“I think chief ministers should always get some priority. But here, some aviation officials seem to have forgotten that. They (BJP leaders) will leave, but you (Central officials) have to stay with us,” PTI quoted her saying.The Bengal CM did not elaborate on the charges. This is not the first time that Banerjee has accused central agencies of biasness. She has accused EC and ED of the same at several poll rallies.



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Guwahati logs highest April rainfall in 75 years; 1 dead, schools closed NEW DELHI: At least one person died and normal life was disrupted in Guwahati on Monday after torrential overnight rains triggered widespread flooding, leaving roads submerged, homes inundated and traffic paralysed across the Assam capital.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Guwahati received 117.4 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, the highest ever recorded for a single day in April since 1951. The previous record of 116.5 mm was set in 2004.Several locations recorded even higher precipitation: Khanapara’s SIRD Complex recorded 215.9 mm, Gauhati University received 134 mm, and the Guwahati city ARG recorded 126.5 mm, according to IMD data.Woman dies after falling into drainA woman died after she reportedly slipped and fell into an open drain in the Maligaon area on Sunday night. The deceased was identified as Payel Nath. Rescue teams from Guwahati City Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) located her body approximately 150 metres from the spot where she fell.Widespread waterloggingHeavy rainfall through Sunday night and early Monday left several areas severely waterlogged, including Maligaon, Rukminigaon, Rukmini Nagar, Survey-Wireless, Anil Nagar, VIP Road, Jorabat, Rajgarh, Hatigaon and Zoo Road. Water levels rose to chest height in several localities.The Kamrup Metro district administration ordered the closure of all government and private educational institutions within the Guwahati Municipal Corporation area on Monday in the interest of public safety.More rain forecastThe IMD has forecast continued inclement weather over Assam for the next two to three days, with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected across various parts of the state. The forecast also warns of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40-50 km/h in some areas.City authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with emergency response systems on alert. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has urged residents to take necessary precautions and remain vigilant.”Daily commuters and long-distance travellers are requested to plan their routines accordingly, avoiding unnecessary movement during periods of intense rainfall. Residents in low-lying and hillside areas should stay alert for any signs of flooding or landslides,” ASDMA said in a statement.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPiyush Goyal Slams India-South Korea CEPA, Flags Need To Rewrite ‘Irrational’ Trade DealDelhi High Court Rejects Recusal Plea in Excise Policy Case; Judge Calls It “Catch-22” for HerselfUdhampur Bus Tragedy Kills 21; Political Row Erupts Over I-Pac In Bengal | WatchIndia, Ukraine Security Pact In Works? 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Guwahati logs highest April rainfall in 75 years; 1 dead, schools closed NEW DELHI: At least one person died and normal life was disrupted in Guwahati on Monday after torrential overnight rains triggered widespread flooding, leaving roads submerged, homes inundated and traffic paralysed across the Assam capital.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Guwahati received 117.4 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, the highest ever recorded for a single day in April since 1951. The previous record of 116.5 mm was set in 2004.Several locations recorded even higher precipitation: Khanapara’s SIRD Complex recorded 215.9 mm, Gauhati University received 134 mm, and the Guwahati city ARG recorded 126.5 mm, according to IMD data.Woman dies after falling into drainA woman died after she reportedly slipped and fell into an open drain in the Maligaon area on Sunday night. The deceased was identified as Payel Nath. Rescue teams from Guwahati City Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) located her body approximately 150 metres from the spot where she fell.Widespread waterloggingHeavy rainfall through Sunday night and early Monday left several areas severely waterlogged, including Maligaon, Rukminigaon, Rukmini Nagar, Survey-Wireless, Anil Nagar, VIP Road, Jorabat, Rajgarh, Hatigaon and Zoo Road. Water levels rose to chest height in several localities.The Kamrup Metro district administration ordered the closure of all government and private educational institutions within the Guwahati Municipal Corporation area on Monday in the interest of public safety.More rain forecastThe IMD has forecast continued inclement weather over Assam for the next two to three days, with heavy to very heavy rainfall expected across various parts of the state. The forecast also warns of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 40-50 km/h in some areas.City authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with emergency response systems on alert. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) has urged residents to take necessary precautions and remain vigilant.”Daily commuters and long-distance travellers are requested to plan their routines accordingly, avoiding unnecessary movement during periods of intense rainfall. Residents in low-lying and hillside areas should stay alert for any signs of flooding or landslides,” ASDMA said in a statement.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. 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. NEW DELHI: With a fresh round of trade negotiations between India and the US beginning in Washington, the Coalition for a GM-Free India — a network of farmers and civil society organisations — on Monday wrote to the central govt, urging it not to allow imports of genetically modified (GM) cotton seed oil, animal feed dried distillers’ grains (DDGs) and soybean oil into India from the US.In its detailed letter to several Union ministers, including commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal, the Coalition also urged them not to allow elimination of GM as a non-tariff trade barrier. The US has long been asking India to address the issue of non-tariff barriers in trade in American food and agricultural products.The Coalition argued that allowing these imports would constitute backdoor entry of GM food in India when the domestic law explicitly prohibits it, and will lead to legitimisation of transgenic food.Though India could protect its ground by not allowing import of corn (maize) and soybean (both genetically modified crops in the US) in an interim agreement on Feb 7, it agreed to eliminate or reduce tariffs on a wide range of American agricultural products, including DDGs and soybean oil.The move was criticised by farm organisations who flagged how DDGs would mostly come from genetically modified American corn.In its letter, the Coalition flagged how different American organisations have been pushing for opening up the Indian market for GM farm products directly or indirectly, and urged the govt to step away from all bodies which are promoting US interests for GM crops in India under their MoUs with US pro-GM outfits.“These entities are nothing less than new-age East India Companies, setting presence in India and working to open India’s markets for American GM produce, and erode our sovereignty,” it said.About the AuthorVishwa MohanVishwa Mohan is Senior Editor at The Times of India. He writes on environment, climate change, agriculture, water resources and clean energy, tracking policy issues and climate diplomacy. He has been covering Parliament since 2003 to see how politics shaped up domestic policy and India’s position at global platform. Before switching over to explore sustainable development issues, Vishwa had covered internal security and investigative agencies for more than a decade.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUdhampur Bus Tragedy Kills 21; Political Row Erupts Over I-Pac In Bengal | WatchIndia, Ukraine Security Pact In Works? Zelenskyy Signals Big Move Amid Russia Ukraine WarUnmanned Mine Counter Measure Vessels Take Lead In Demining OperationsIndia-South Korea Mega Deal: PM Modi & Lee Jae Myung Target 50 Billion Trade, Boost TiesFire Erupts At Rajasthan’s HPCL Refinery Ahead Of PM Modi’s Launch EventNSA Doval Meets Top Saudi Leaders, Focus On Security And EnergyFact Check: No, Indian Navy Did NOT Detain Somali Pirates In Viral VideoTMC Hits Out At PM Modi Over Jhalmuri Stop, Claims Hemant Soren Forced To ReturnTMC vs Himanta Biswa Sarma Erupts As Mamata Banerjee Row Sparks Election Commission ComplaintManipur Erupts In Anger As No Arrests Made After 5 Killings, Protests Turn Violent123PhotostoriesThese are the only 5 nations in the world that begin with letter “D” and each tells a unique storyAre you a traveller who loves to buy gold? 5 largest gold-producing countries in the world where gold can be cheaperPriyanka and Rahul Gandhi spotted relishing Gelato: What is Gelato and how is it different from ice cream and other frozen desserts10 Vedic baby girl names that begin with letter VJitendra Kumar, Aniruddh Agarwal, Amol Parashar to Vipul Goyal: Actors who swapped engineering degrees for stardomWhy non-vegetarian thali has become cheaper than vegetarian thaliDoes your home breathe? 5 lessons to learn from the timeless beauty of Chettinad interiorsGurgaon SPR bottleneck sparks urgent road expansion, missing link reopened7 morning affirmations that work for sure (why are they so powerful)Best exercises for liver health, according to expert: How walking, strength training, and HIIT can reduce fatty liver123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingBan vs NZKanpur MurderAndhra Pradesh Bomb ExplodeKanpur Rape CaseTCS Nashik CaseJammu Bus AccidentAndhra Pradesh MurderLucknow Girl MurderTamil Nadu Firecracker Unit BlastJapan Earthquake

. NEW DELHI: With a fresh round of trade negotiations between India and the US beginning in Washington, the Coalition for a GM-Free India — a network of farmers and civil society organisations — on Monday wrote to the central govt, urging it not to allow imports of genetically modified (GM) cotton seed oil, animal feed dried distillers’ grains (DDGs) and soybean oil into India from the US.In its detailed letter to several Union ministers, including commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal, the Coalition also urged them not to allow elimination of GM as a non-tariff trade barrier. The US has long been asking India to address the issue of non-tariff barriers in trade in American food and agricultural products.The Coalition argued that allowing these imports would constitute backdoor entry of GM food in India when the domestic law explicitly prohibits it, and will lead to legitimisation of transgenic food.Though India could protect its ground by not allowing import of corn (maize) and soybean (both genetically modified crops in the US) in an interim agreement on Feb 7, it agreed to eliminate or reduce tariffs on a wide range of American agricultural products, including DDGs and soybean oil.The move was criticised by farm organisations who flagged how DDGs would mostly come from genetically modified American corn.In its letter, the Coalition flagged how different American organisations have been pushing for opening up the Indian market for GM farm products directly or indirectly, and urged the govt to step away from all bodies which are promoting US interests for GM crops in India under their MoUs with US pro-GM outfits.“These entities are nothing less than new-age East India Companies, setting presence in India and working to open India’s markets for American GM produce, and erode our sovereignty,” it said.About the AuthorVishwa MohanVishwa Mohan is Senior Editor at The Times of India. He writes on environment, climate change, agriculture, water resources and clean energy, tracking policy issues and climate diplomacy. He has been covering Parliament since 2003 to see how politics shaped up domestic policy and India’s position at global platform. Before switching over to explore sustainable development issues, Vishwa had covered internal security and investigative agencies for more than a decade.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosUdhampur Bus Tragedy Kills 21; Political Row Erupts Over I-Pac In Bengal | WatchIndia, Ukraine Security Pact In Works? Zelenskyy Signals Big Move Amid Russia Ukraine WarUnmanned Mine Counter Measure Vessels Take Lead In Demining OperationsIndia-South Korea Mega Deal: PM Modi & Lee Jae Myung Target 50 Billion Trade, Boost TiesFire Erupts At Rajasthan’s HPCL Refinery Ahead Of PM Modi’s Launch EventNSA Doval Meets Top Saudi Leaders, Focus On Security And EnergyFact Check: No, Indian Navy Did NOT Detain Somali Pirates In Viral VideoTMC Hits Out At PM Modi Over Jhalmuri Stop, Claims Hemant Soren Forced To ReturnTMC vs Himanta Biswa Sarma Erupts As Mamata Banerjee Row Sparks Election Commission ComplaintManipur Erupts In Anger As No Arrests Made After 5 Killings, Protests Turn Violent123PhotostoriesThese are the only 5 nations in the world that begin with letter “D” and each tells a unique storyAre you a traveller who loves to buy gold? 5 largest gold-producing countries in the world where gold can be cheaperPriyanka and Rahul Gandhi spotted relishing Gelato: What is Gelato and how is it different from ice cream and other frozen desserts10 Vedic baby girl names that begin with letter VJitendra Kumar, Aniruddh Agarwal, Amol Parashar to Vipul Goyal: Actors who swapped engineering degrees for stardomWhy non-vegetarian thali has become cheaper than vegetarian thaliDoes your home breathe? 5 lessons to learn from the timeless beauty of Chettinad interiorsGurgaon SPR bottleneck sparks urgent road expansion, missing link reopened7 morning affirmations that work for sure (why are they so powerful)Best exercises for liver health, according to expert: How walking, strength training, and HIIT can reduce fatty liver123Hot PicksIran warDelimitation Bill DefeatPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingBan vs NZKanpur MurderAndhra Pradesh Bomb ExplodeKanpur Rape CaseTCS Nashik CaseJammu Bus AccidentAndhra Pradesh MurderLucknow Girl MurderTamil Nadu Firecracker Unit BlastJapan Earthquake

Vamsikrishna 0
NEW DELHI: An Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe into political consultancy firm I-PAC has snowballed into a major political flashpoint in poll-bound West Bengal, placing it at the centre of a fierce battle between Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress and the BJP-led Centre. What began as a money-laundering investigation has now expanded into a wider confrontation involving raids, arrests, summons and the “green file” episode.From ED raids to political confrontationThe ED raid turned into a political flashpoint when chief minster Mamata Banerjee stepped into the ongoing investigation and allegedly intervened in the proceedings by removing key evidence, according to the agency. Watch I-PAC Halting Bengal Operations Spark Political Row; TMC Denies Claims The ED had carried out searches at multiple locations, including Kolkata and Delhi, as part of a probe into alleged financial irregularities linked to I-PAC.The agency has maintained that the action is part of a routine investigation and not politically motivated, saying that the search is evidence-based and not targeted at any political establishment, that no party office has been searched, and that it is not linked to any elections.The TMC, however, has strongly pushed back, accusing central agencies of targeting the party ahead of elections and turning the investigation into a political confrontation.The ‘green file’ flashpointThe dramatic intervention by Mamata came, when she arrived at the residence of I-PAC co-founder Pratik Jain during the ED raid.According to the agency, she, along with aides and police personnel, “forcibly removed physical documents and electronic evidence” and later went to the I-PAC office in Salt Lake, where similar actions were alleged.Visuals of Mamata carrying what came to be known as the “green file” sparked a nationwide debate. The ED said her actions caused obstruction in proceedings conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), while the TMC defended her move, claiming the raids were aimed at accessing sensitive political material.However, Mamata alleged that central agencies seized sensitive party material, including hard disks, candidate lists and strategy documents, and accused Amit Shah of misusing investigative bodies.“Is it the duty of the ED or Amit Shah to take away a party’s hard disks and candidate list? The home minister, who cannot protect the country, is taking away all my party documents,” Banerjee said while speaking to reporters.Issuing a direct challenge, the CM dared the BJP leadership to take her on politically. “If Amit Shah wants Bengal, then come and fight democratically and win. People should know what kind of operation was carried out. At 6:00 am they arrived and seized party data, laptops, strategies and mobile phones. Their forensic experts copied all the data. I believe this is a crime,” she said.BJP fires backBJP leaders have launched a sharp attack on Mamata Banerjee over the I-PAC controversy, accusing her of interfering in the ED probe and shielding wrongdoing.BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal alleged that the chief minister was “siding with the mafias” and described I-PAC as “a very controversial company.” He claimed, “When a raid takes place, the chief minister herself goes there and steals the documents… I-PAC’s job is to work with mafias, taking money from them to form and topple governments.” He further demanded that the ED “should register an FIR against Mamata Banerjee.”Echoing similar charges, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said Banerjee “obstructed official work” during the ED operation. “Perhaps for the first time in India, a chief minister entered during a raid and attempted to remove evidence,” he alleged, adding that she “pushed everyone aside and collected physical and electronic evidence,” which, according to him, “shows that she has a lot to hide.”Coal scam and hawala linkThe investigation is rooted in a 2020 CBI case related to an alleged coal smuggling syndicate led by Anup Majhi alias Lala, involving illegal mining in parts of West Bengal. The ED alleges that proceeds from this operation were routed through hawala channels to Indian PAC Consulting Pvt Ltd, the registered entity of I-PAC.The agency said the raids were linked to individuals who generated proceeds from coal smuggling and alleged that I-PAC is one of the entities linked to hawala money. Investigators claim that a hawala operator facilitated transactions worth tens of crores of rupees to the firm.Arrests and widening probeThe case intensified in April when the ED arrested I-PAC co-founder Vinesh Chandel in connection with the money-laundering probe. He was produced before a Delhi court, which recorded that the agency complied with statutory requirements under the PMLA and that relevant documents and grounds of arrest were provided.The probe has continued to expand, with director Rishi Raj Singh summoned for questioning, and repeated scrutiny of co-founder Pratik Jain. The ED has also summoned Jain’s wife and brother, stating that their business links are under examination.From poll strategist to political flashpointPoll strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor founded the I-PAC, that emerged as major political consultancy working with multiple parties across India.It has been closely associated with the TMC in West Bengal and has played a key role in election strategy.Although founder Prashant Kishor exited from IPAC after West Bengal elections in 2021 and months after launched his own political outfit, Jan Suraaj, the firm continues to be active in key electoral states, including West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.Election timing and political stakesThe timing of the raids and arrests, ahead of crucial elections, has intensified the political battle. The TMC has framed the investigation as an attempt to disrupt its campaign machinery, while the BJP has used the probe to question the ruling party’s transparency.Mamata also led a protest rally in Kolkata against the ED action, underlining how central the issue has become in the state’s political narrative.Beyond I-PAC: A larger political battleThe controversy has grown beyond a financial probe into a broader political conflict involving allegations of corruption, claims of political vendetta, and tensions between the state and the Centre.With raids, arrests and the “green file” episode dominating headlines, I-PAC has become a key flashpoint in West Bengal politics, one that is likely to shape narratives and voter perception in the run-up to elections.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia, Ukraine Security Pact In Works? 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NEW DELHI: An Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe into political consultancy firm I-PAC has snowballed into a major political flashpoint in poll-bound West Bengal, placing it at the centre of a fierce battle between Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress and the BJP-led Centre. What began as a money-laundering investigation has now expanded into a wider confrontation involving raids, arrests, summons and the “green file” episode.From ED raids to political confrontationThe ED raid turned into a political flashpoint when chief minster Mamata Banerjee stepped into the ongoing investigation and allegedly intervened in the proceedings by removing key evidence, according to the agency. Watch I-PAC Halting Bengal Operations Spark Political Row; TMC Denies Claims The ED had carried out searches at multiple locations, including Kolkata and Delhi, as part of a probe into alleged financial irregularities linked to I-PAC.The agency has maintained that the action is part of a routine investigation and not politically motivated, saying that the search is evidence-based and not targeted at any political establishment, that no party office has been searched, and that it is not linked to any elections.The TMC, however, has strongly pushed back, accusing central agencies of targeting the party ahead of elections and turning the investigation into a political confrontation.The ‘green file’ flashpointThe dramatic intervention by Mamata came, when she arrived at the residence of I-PAC co-founder Pratik Jain during the ED raid.According to the agency, she, along with aides and police personnel, “forcibly removed physical documents and electronic evidence” and later went to the I-PAC office in Salt Lake, where similar actions were alleged.Visuals of Mamata carrying what came to be known as the “green file” sparked a nationwide debate. The ED said her actions caused obstruction in proceedings conducted under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), while the TMC defended her move, claiming the raids were aimed at accessing sensitive political material.However, Mamata alleged that central agencies seized sensitive party material, including hard disks, candidate lists and strategy documents, and accused Amit Shah of misusing investigative bodies.“Is it the duty of the ED or Amit Shah to take away a party’s hard disks and candidate list? The home minister, who cannot protect the country, is taking away all my party documents,” Banerjee said while speaking to reporters.Issuing a direct challenge, the CM dared the BJP leadership to take her on politically. “If Amit Shah wants Bengal, then come and fight democratically and win. People should know what kind of operation was carried out. At 6:00 am they arrived and seized party data, laptops, strategies and mobile phones. Their forensic experts copied all the data. I believe this is a crime,” she said.BJP fires backBJP leaders have launched a sharp attack on Mamata Banerjee over the I-PAC controversy, accusing her of interfering in the ED probe and shielding wrongdoing.BJP MP Sanjay Jaiswal alleged that the chief minister was “siding with the mafias” and described I-PAC as “a very controversial company.” He claimed, “When a raid takes place, the chief minister herself goes there and steals the documents… I-PAC’s job is to work with mafias, taking money from them to form and topple governments.” He further demanded that the ED “should register an FIR against Mamata Banerjee.”Echoing similar charges, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said Banerjee “obstructed official work” during the ED operation. “Perhaps for the first time in India, a chief minister entered during a raid and attempted to remove evidence,” he alleged, adding that she “pushed everyone aside and collected physical and electronic evidence,” which, according to him, “shows that she has a lot to hide.”Coal scam and hawala linkThe investigation is rooted in a 2020 CBI case related to an alleged coal smuggling syndicate led by Anup Majhi alias Lala, involving illegal mining in parts of West Bengal. The ED alleges that proceeds from this operation were routed through hawala channels to Indian PAC Consulting Pvt Ltd, the registered entity of I-PAC.The agency said the raids were linked to individuals who generated proceeds from coal smuggling and alleged that I-PAC is one of the entities linked to hawala money. Investigators claim that a hawala operator facilitated transactions worth tens of crores of rupees to the firm.Arrests and widening probeThe case intensified in April when the ED arrested I-PAC co-founder Vinesh Chandel in connection with the money-laundering probe. He was produced before a Delhi court, which recorded that the agency complied with statutory requirements under the PMLA and that relevant documents and grounds of arrest were provided.The probe has continued to expand, with director Rishi Raj Singh summoned for questioning, and repeated scrutiny of co-founder Pratik Jain. The ED has also summoned Jain’s wife and brother, stating that their business links are under examination.From poll strategist to political flashpointPoll strategist-turned-politician Prashant Kishor founded the I-PAC, that emerged as major political consultancy working with multiple parties across India.It has been closely associated with the TMC in West Bengal and has played a key role in election strategy.Although founder Prashant Kishor exited from IPAC after West Bengal elections in 2021 and months after launched his own political outfit, Jan Suraaj, the firm continues to be active in key electoral states, including West Bengal and Tamil Nadu.Election timing and political stakesThe timing of the raids and arrests, ahead of crucial elections, has intensified the political battle. The TMC has framed the investigation as an attempt to disrupt its campaign machinery, while the BJP has used the probe to question the ruling party’s transparency.Mamata also led a protest rally in Kolkata against the ED action, underlining how central the issue has become in the state’s political narrative.Beyond I-PAC: A larger political battleThe controversy has grown beyond a financial probe into a broader political conflict involving allegations of corruption, claims of political vendetta, and tensions between the state and the Centre.With raids, arrests and the “green file” episode dominating headlines, I-PAC has become a key flashpoint in West Bengal politics, one that is likely to shape narratives and voter perception in the run-up to elections.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia, Ukraine Security Pact In Works? 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