KOLKATA: In the wake of allegations of "theft of documents" during Enforcement Directorate (ED) searches, local police have initiated a process to identify ED officials and Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel who were allegedly involved. This move comes amidst a political storm and escalating legal confrontation surrounding the ED's recent raids in Kolkata.

The investigation stems from a complaint filed by the family of Pratik Jain, director of I-PAC (Indian Political Action Committee), alleging that ED officials trespassed and stole important documents during a raid on their residence. The complaint has been registered as a First Information Report (FIR), prompting the Kolkata Police to conduct an inquiry into the allegations.

According to sources, the family's complaint includes serious charges such as trespassing and theft against ED officials. The police are reportedly gathering information and evidence to determine the veracity of these claims. Simultaneously, sources indicate that a suo moto case may also be filed against ED officials, potentially including charges of criminal intimidation.

The ED has also approached the Calcutta High Court, seeking a CBI probe against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, State DGP Rajeev Kumar, Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Varma, and others. The ED has accused them of "theft of digital and other evidence, wrongful restraint and confinement of central government officers and breakdown of rule of law".

In its petition, the ED alleges that Banerjee entered Jain's residence during the search and, with the help of police personnel, forcibly took possession of digital devices and incriminating documents from ED officers. The agency claims this action obstructed their lawful duties and amounts to theft of evidence, criminal trespass, destruction, and concealment of material evidence.

The ED's search operations are linked to a case involving alleged irregularities in CAPF recruitment and a coal smuggling scam. The agency is investigating the transfer of approximately ₹20 crore through hawala channels to I-PAC, with Pratik Jain allegedly handling I-PAC operations in Goa. The ED claims that the money is proceeds from crime related to coal smuggling.

The political ramifications of the ED raids and the subsequent investigations are significant. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has accused the ED of acting unfairly and targeting their party and leaders. Protests have erupted in various parts of West Bengal, with TMC supporters denouncing the ED's actions.

Political analyst Asif Ansari has suggested that the BJP is misusing the ED to find weaknesses against Mamata Banerjee ahead of elections. Mamata Banerjee has alleged that the ED seized confidential documents, including candidate lists, during the raids.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission (EC) has sought affidavits from West Bengal government employees, including teachers, declaring that they do not possess duplicate voter ID cards. This move aims to ensure the integrity of the electoral rolls. The EC is also reviewing security preparations for upcoming polls, with plans to deploy state police personnel and potentially Central Armed Police Forces.