ED Investigates Trinamool Congress Funds in Kolkata Raids
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday conducted searches at five locations in Kolkata as part of an investigation into the financial transactions of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the funding of chartered flights used by party general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.
The searches, which began early in the morning, covered premises in Central Avenue, Rajarhat-New Town, and adjacent areas. Among the locations searched were the office and residence of a businessman reportedly associated with Abhishek Banerjee. According to ED sources, the businessman’s firm, Carewell Aviation, is suspected of being involved in channelling funds for chartering flights for Banerjee.
The ED is examining the flow of funds through TMC’s bank accounts. Preliminary findings indicate that over Rs 150 crore may have been routed through various aviation and travel companies. The agency is probing whether these transactions violated money laundering laws.
The Trinamool Congress has not yet issued a statement on the searches. Abhishek Banerjee, the nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has previously denied any wrongdoing. The ED’s action is part of a broader investigation into alleged financial irregularities in the state.
The searches were conducted under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The ED is expected to analyse documents and digital evidence collected during the operation.
