The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has Notably intensified its operations against corruption, money laundering, and organized crime syndicates in West Bengal ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. The federal agency has initiated a series of raids, asset attachments, and summons across the state, targeting political figures, bureaucrats, and business entities. According to officials, these actions are part of a broader investigation into multiple scams, including recruitment irregularities, ration distribution fraud, and illegal coal mining.
IPAC and International Hawala Network Probe
On April 2, 2026, the ED conducted simultaneous raids at 11 locations across major cities, including Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Vijayawada. The searches targeted the offices of IPAC and the residences of its directors. According to the agency, the raids yielded digital evidence suggesting the existence of an international hawala network. Officials are currently investigating whether illegal funding was being channeled under the guise of electoral activities.
Recruitment Scams and Action Against Partha Chatterjee
Former Education Minister Partha Chatterjee is once again under the scanner of the federal agency. On April 11, 2026, raids were conducted at his Kolkata residence and the office of his associate, Prasanna Kumar Roy. According to the ED, Chatterjee failed to appear for questioning despite being served three summons in connection with the SSC recruitment scam. The agency is now probing fresh leads related to primary teacher and Group C-D staff recruitments.
Coal Smuggling and ₹650 Crore Extortion Racket
In the illegal coal mining case, the ED filed a chargesheet in a special court on April 9, 2026. The investigation revealed that a coal mafia syndicate was extorting 'protection money' from transporters and buyers, amounting to 20-25% of the coal value. According to officials, this syndicate amassed approximately ₹650 crore in black money over the last five years. Key accused, including Chinmoy Mondal and Kiran Khan, have been named in the proceedings.
PDS Ration Fraud and Land Grabbing Syndicates
A massive search operation was conducted on April 10, 2026, at 17 locations regarding the Public Distribution System (PDS) scam. It's alleged that wheat intended for the poor was illegally diverted to the open market and for export by swapping FCI bags. 9 lakh in cash was seized. Simultaneously, the agency targeted Amit Ganguly and promoters of the Merlin Group for allegedly usurping high-value land using forged documents and laundering the proceeds through real estate projects.
Financial Irregularities and Asset Attachments
5 crore in connection with the South Point Education Society fund embezzlement case. Investigations revealed that funds were diverted through fake bills and invested in mutual funds and shares. Also, assets worth ₹48 lakh belonging to suspended customs official Navneet Kumar were attached for fraudulent clearance of goods. The agency is also probing an ₹85 crore NRI quota medical admission scam involving high-ranking officials.