India’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly criticized the Enforcement Directorate (ED) after the federal agency froze bank accounts linked to the party as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation. The opposition party described the action as politically motivated and accused the central government of misusing investigative agencies to weaken political rivals.
According to the Enforcement Directorate, nearly $46 million connected to TMC accounts has been frozen during the investigation. Officials claim that around $16.8 million was transferred from party linked accounts to an aviation company and its associated firms between April 2023 and June 2026. Investigators allege the funds were used to purchase a private jet and a helicopter, which were later leased back to the political party.
The TMC has firmly rejected all allegations, insisting that every financial transaction was conducted legally and that all funds were fully disclosed to the relevant authorities. Party leaders argued that freezing the accounts is an unjustified move aimed at disrupting the party’s activities ahead of future political developments.
In an official statement, the TMC said the decision represents an abuse of investigative powers and claimed that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has repeatedly used central agencies against opposition parties. The party further stated that such actions undermine democratic values and create an uneven political environment.
The case has once again sparked debate over the independence of India’s investigative institutions. Opposition leaders have frequently alleged that enforcement agencies are selectively targeting political opponents, while the central government continues to reject these accusations.
Several prominent opposition politicians have faced legal investigations in recent years. Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren were both arrested in separate corruption related cases during 2024, with both leaders denying any wrongdoing.
The BJP has consistently maintained that investigative agencies function independently and that all corruption and financial crime investigations are carried out strictly according to the law without political interference. As the investigation continues, the controversy is expected to remain a major issue in India’s political landscape.
