In a significant development in the ongoing I-PAC investigation, the Supreme Court has issued a stern directive to the West Bengal government. The apex court has ordered the Mamata Banerjee-led administration to preserve all CCTV footage related to the case and submit a response within two weeks.
The notice comes amid heightened scrutiny over allegations involving the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC), which has been accused of various irregularities. Justices issued the order during a hearing where the court expressed dissatisfaction with the state’s handling of evidence preservation.
Legal experts note that this intervention underscores the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring transparency in high-profile political matters. The bench emphasized that tampering with or failing to secure CCTV recordings could lead to serious consequences.
Background of the case reveals deep political tensions. I-PAC, known for its role in election strategies, faces probes into its operations during recent polls. The Supreme Court’s notice specifically targets the state police and administration’s role in securing digital evidence.
The two-week deadline adds urgency. West Bengal government officials have been directed to file a detailed affidavit outlining measures taken to safeguard the footage. Failure to comply could result in contempt proceedings.
This order reignites debates on evidence handling in India. Critics of the Mamata government allege selective preservation of records, while supporters claim it’s a politically motivated witch hunt. As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the state’s response.
The ruling sets a precedent for future cases involving digital surveillance. It reinforces that no entity is above the law when it comes to preserving crucial evidence in judicial proceedings. The nation watches closely as this chapter unfolds.