BJP slams CM Mamata Banerjee, defends ED action as 'independent'

Kolkata: The BJP leadership in West Bengal has reiterated that law enforcement agencies must be allowed to function independently, professionally and without political interference.

Leader of the Opposition in the assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, criticising Banerjee's visit to I-PAC chief Prateek Jain's residence and office, said: "I feel the chief minister and Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Verma's visit was unethical, unconstitutional, and direct interference in the central agency's investigation."

BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya said, "ED is doing its work. If she has an objection, the Supreme Court's doors are always open. She can go there. We are interested in the growth and development of Bengal...What the chief minister did inside the residence or office, we are not aware. If it is snatching or dacoity, it is not our concern. ED will let you know better."