The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has approached the Supreme Court of India seeking directions for registration of a First Information Report (FIR) by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) against Mamata Banerjee, alleging obstruction of official duties during raids conducted at premises linked to Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) in West Bengal.

According to the ED’s petition, the agency claims that its officers were allegedly prevented from carrying out lawful search and seizure operations during a raid connected to an ongoing money-laundering investigation. The ED has alleged that the obstruction occurred in the presence of senior state officials and political functionaries, and that such actions amount to interference in the functioning of a central investigative agency.

The plea submitted before the apex court contends that despite repeated representations, no FIR was registered by the state police, prompting the ED to seek the Supreme Court’s intervention. The agency has argued that the alleged incident raises serious concerns about the rule of law and the ability of central agencies to function independently in states governed by opposition parties.

The ED has requested the court to direct the CBI to take over the matter and register an FIR to ensure a fair and impartial investigation. The agency has also sought protection for its officers and guidelines to prevent similar incidents in the future, citing an “increasing pattern of resistance” faced during enforcement actions in certain states.

The alleged incident is said to have taken place during searches linked to a financial probe, the details of which remain sealed due to the sensitive nature of the investigation. ED officials have maintained that the operation was conducted strictly in accordance with legal procedures and under valid authorisation.

Responding to the allegations, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly denied any wrongdoing by the Chief Minister. Party leaders have termed the ED’s move as “politically motivated” and accused the central government of misusing investigative agencies to target opposition leaders. They have asserted that Mamata Banerjee was present at the scene to ensure law and order and to protect the rights of citizens, not to obstruct any official process.

Legal experts say the case could have far-reaching implications for Centre-State relations and the functioning of federal agencies. “If the Supreme Court intervenes and orders a CBI probe, it will set a significant precedent regarding alleged obstruction of central agencies by state authorities,” said a senior constitutional lawyer.

The matter is expected to be listed for an initial hearing in the coming days. The Supreme Court may seek responses from the West Bengal government and the Chief Minister before taking a decision on whether to order a CBI investigation.

The case adds to the growing list of legal and political confrontations between the Centre and the West Bengal government, further intensifying the debate over federalism, agency autonomy, and the use of investigative powers in India’s charged political climate.