The Supreme Court of India has delivered a stern warning to the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government regarding the safety and legal protection of central investigative officers. During a high-stakes hearing related to the I-PAC case, the Apex Court posed a hard-hitting question to the state’s counsel: “Do ED officers on duty not have fundamental rights?”

The Court’s Observations: The bench expressed deep concern over the recurring pattern of central agencies being targeted or faced with counter-cases while performing their duties in the state. The justices emphasized that Every citizen, including a government official on duty, is protected by the Constitution. By hindering their work or initiating coercive action against them, the state is effectively challenging the federal structure of the country.

The Context of the I-PAC Dispute: The case, which originally stems from legal battles involving political consultancy firm I-PAC and police actions, shifted focus toward the broader issue of central vs. state friction. The Supreme Court highlighted that investigative independence is paramount. When ED or CBI officers are physically attacked or legally intimidated, it sets a dangerous precedent for the rule of law.

The West Bengal government’s legal team attempted to defend the state’s jurisdiction, but the court remained firm on the protection of fundamental rights for all. The bench noted that political rivalry should not translate into institutional sabotage. The state has been directed to provide clarity on the measures taken to ensure the unhindered functioning of central agencies.