Breaking from the Supreme Court: West Bengal’s government under fire with a no-nonsense notice over CCTV preservation in the high-stakes I-PAC case. The Mamata Banerjee regime has just two weeks to affirm compliance.
In a packed courtroom, the apex court voiced alarm at reports of lax evidence handling. ‘Secure all footage immediately and report back,’ commanded the bench, underscoring the footage’s pivotal role.
The I-PAC probe traces roots to election-time controversies, where the firm’s strategies allegedly blurred lines between consulting and interference. CCTV from government premises holds clues to alleged meetings and activities.
Stakes are sky-high. Non-adherence risks contempt charges, damaging the state’s credibility further. The notice specifies forensic-level protection and transparent reporting.
Reactions pour in. BJP leaders call it vindication of their long-standing claims, while TMC counters with accusations of central bias. Independent analysts see it as a win for judicial assertiveness.
With the deadline looming, bureaucratic gears shift into overdrive. Expect detailed submissions on backup systems, monitoring, and third-party audits.
This saga exemplifies the judiciary’s role as democracy’s guardian. By enforcing evidence rules, the SC levels the playing field, ensuring facts drive outcomes over narratives. Bengal’s political future may hinge on what’s captured on those tapes.