Supreme Court Deliberates Constitutional Crisis: West Bengal Chief Minister's Alleged Interference with Enforcement Directorate Investigations
The Supreme Court of India has postponed proceedings until February 10 regarding a critical petition filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The central agency alleges unprecedented obstruction of its investigation into the I-PAC raids, marking a significant escalation in federal-state tensions. Judicial records indicate the Court previously characterized the Chief Minister's purported interference as "very serious," signaling deep constitutional concerns about the separation of investigative powers. This case presents a fundamental examination of whether state-level authorities possess legal jurisdiction to impede central agency operations—a question with profound implications for India's federal structure and anti-corruption framework. The adjournment suggests judicial deliberation on complex constitutional boundaries while maintaining pressure on all parties to adhere to legal protocols. Observers note this development could establish crucial precedents regarding investigative autonomy and political accountability mechanisms.