The Supreme Court of India has cracked down on the West Bengal government in the I-PAC controversy. A notice has been slapped on the Mamata Banerjee dispensation, mandating the immediate protection of all relevant CCTV recordings. The state must reply within a strict 14-day window.

This directive emerged from an apex court bench reviewing progress in the I-PAC matter. Concerns over potential evidence destruction prompted the court’s firm stance. ‘Preserve the CCTV footage intact,’ the judges ordered, highlighting risks of data loss or manipulation.

I-PAC’s involvement in Bengal’s political landscape has long been contentious. Accusations range from undue influence in elections to financial misconduct. The footage in question reportedly captures key events at critical locations during the period under investigation.

Political circles are abuzz. Opposition leaders hail the SC’s move as a blow to alleged cover-ups by the ruling Trinamool Congress. Meanwhile, the government maintains the probe is baseless and politically driven.

The order demands a comprehensive compliance report. Details must include chain-of-custody protocols for the videos, access logs, and storage security measures. Any lapses could invite judicial wrath.

This episode highlights growing judicial oversight in state-managed investigations. With elections looming, the I-PAC saga could impact Bengal’s political dynamics significantly.

As the clock ticks, the Mamata administration faces mounting pressure to demonstrate accountability. The Supreme Court’s intervention ensures that truth-seeking remains paramount, regardless of political affiliations.