ED investigation into fund misuse

The Enforcement Directorate has dealt a major blow to the Trinamool Congress by freezing three HDFC Bank accounts linked to the party, holding ₹440.42 crore. The action follows allegations of fund misuse and illegal transactions. The investigation was initiated based on an FIR filed by Kolkata Police.

As part of the probe, ED officials examined transactions between TMC and Carewell Aviation, a private jet and helicopter leasing firm. Around ₹160 crore from party funds was reportedly transferred to the company. Authorities suspect the funds were used to purchase aircraft and lease them back to TMC. Internal disputes and complaints by rebel MLAs had earlier led to restrictions on the accounts, which are now fully frozen under anti-money laundering laws.