ED has initiated raids at approximately six locations in West Bengal as part of its ongoing investigation into the alleged Public Distribution System scam involving absconding Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan.

The raids were conducted a day after the enforcement agency's issuance of fresh summons to Sheikh Shahjahan, urging his cooperation in the ongoing investigation. Led by officials from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and accompanied by central security forces, the search operation was initiated.

A day following the issuance of fresh summons to Sheikh Shahjahan by the agency to cooperate with their investigation ED has conducted raids at various locations in West Bengal. The search operation, carried out by ED officials accompanied by central forces, is part of the ongoing probe into the alleged PDS scam linked to the absconding Trinamool Congress leader.

During a search operation conducted on January 5th, ED officials encountered an attack while en route to conduct raids at the residences of Shahjahan and fellow TMC leader Shankar Adhya in North 24 Parganas district. Nearly 200 locals, purportedly supporters of the TMC leader, surrounded the officials and armed paramilitary forces, preventing them from raiding Shahjahan's residence and resulting in injuries to two ED officials.

The incident sparked a political blame game, with BJP leaders criticizing the Mamata Banerjee-led state government for the deteriorating law and order situation. In response, the TMC accused the agency of instigating the locals.

Following the incident, the Ministry of Home Affairs sought a comprehensive report from the West Bengal government regarding the attacks.

The recent raids are part of an investigation into an alleged ration scam in the state, with former food and civil supplies minister Jyotipriya Mallick already in custody since his arrest in October 2023 in connection with the scam.

Despite efforts by state police and Central agencies, Shahjahan remains at large, successfully evading capture.

The Calcutta High Court has recently directed a collaborative Special Investigation Team to investigate an assault on ED officials in Sandeshkhali. The SIT, which includes personnel from both CBI and West Bengal Police, has been tasked with presenting its findings by February 12, under the High Court's directive.

Image source: Times of India