The latest investigation revolves around an alleged large-scale land scam in Siliguri. During its probe, the ED reportedly gathered substantial information about a Bengali businessman with the surname Ghosh, who is believed to be at the centre of the case.
Based on the evidence collected, the agency has prepared a detailed dossier on him. Official records suggest that his known businesses include a gutka (chewing tobacco) business and a few transport ventures. However, when investigators assessed his declared assets, income and business interests, their estimated value came to around Rs. 60 crore.
What drew the agency’s attention, however, was something far bigger. According to the investigation, the businessman allegedly acquired hundreds of land parcels—not only across Siliguri and different parts of North Bengal but also in several districts of South Bengal. Investigators claim that he purchased nearly 400 to 500 individual plots, with the total estimated value of these properties exceeding Rs. 1,000 crore.
The ED’s central question is straightforward: How could a businessman with officially declared assets of around Rs. 60 crore build a land empire worth over ₹1,000 crore?
During the investigation, the agency reportedly arrested one of the businessman’s close associates, described as a key intermediary or middleman. According to investigators, this individual has provided detailed information about how the land transactions were allegedly carried out.
The investigation suggests that many of these land acquisitions were made with the support of local Trinamool Congress leaders. According to the statements recorded by the agency, certain local political figures allegedly helped facilitate the deals. In several cases, landowners were reportedly pressured into selling their properties. Some were allegedly intimidated, while others were forced to accept prices far below market value. Investigators claim that in some instances, the owners received little or no proper compensation at all.
The ED believes that the entire operation points towards a well-organised land scam, and the investigation is now focused on tracing where the money eventually went.
According to the statements made by the arrested intermediary, a significant portion of the money generated from these land transactions was allegedly routed to Camac Street in Kolkata. The claim is that the funds were collected in the name of a party fund.
The most serious allegation emerging from the investigation is that Abhishek Banerjee was the principal beneficiary of these funds.
However, leaders close to Abhishek Banerjee have strongly rejected these allegations. The Trinamool Congress has dismissed the claims entirely, maintaining that they are politically motivated.
Abhishek Banerjee himself has repeatedly alleged that both the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate are being used as political tools to target him. On several occasions, he has said that the agencies are conducting politically motivated investigations with the intention of damaging his image and weakening him politically.
This allegation is not limited to the present case. Several former TMC MLAs, councillors and other leaders, including leaders from North Bengal such as Debraj and others who have faced investigations or arrests, have similarly accused the central agencies of acting with political motives.
Investigators, however, continue to pursue the money trail. According to sources connected with the investigation, the agencies believe that the proceeds of the alleged corruption ultimately reached Camac Street, strengthening their suspicion that they are attempting to build a case that could eventually reach Abhishek Banerjee.
Within BJP circles, it is believed that the investigation is now entering a decisive phase. At the same time, Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari has increasingly begun speaking publicly about corruption allegedly involving the Trinamool Congress. While he frequently refers to corruption cases in general, he has largely avoided naming either Mamata Banerjee or Abhishek Banerjee directly, as the investigation itself is being conducted by the ED and the CBI.
According to political discussions surrounding the case, Abhishek Banerjee had sought legal protection to prevent any possible arrest, including anticipatory bail. However, it is being claimed that the court did not grant him the relief he had sought. As a result, political circles believe that the possibility of his arrest remains open.
Sources within the BJP say that the timing of any action will ultimately depend on the Enforcement Directorate and the CBI. According to ED sources, the agency already has a detailed roadmap for the investigation. They plan to proceed step by step, questioning individuals connected to the case and verifying every statement before taking any final action.
Officials reportedly intend to prepare the chargesheets only after corroborating witness statements and collecting sufficient documentary evidence so that the case remains legally strong. That, they say, is why the investigation is taking time.
One important question remains unanswered: When will any possible arrest take place?
The Monsoon Session of Parliament, scheduled to begin on July 20, is being closely watched. Whether any action is taken before the session begins, during the session, or only after Parliament concludes remains uncertain.
Another factor being examined is Abhishek Banerjee’s constitutional position as a Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha. Investigators are reportedly assessing what legal protections or procedural safeguards are available to an MP before taking any further action.
For now, the investigation continues, and the final course of action will depend on the evidence gathered by the central agencies and the legal process that follows.
