Kolkata, West Bengal (UNA) :

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Friday led a protest march in central Kolkata against recent searches conducted by the Enforcement Directorate. Senior party leaders, workers and supporters joined the march, which moved through key city roads under tight security.

The protest was organised in response to ED searches linked to a political consultancy firm, an issue the TMC claims reflects misuse of central agencies. Banerjee walked at the front of the march, holding placards and addressing supporters, asserting that the actions were politically motivated and aimed at intimidating opposition voices.

For the general public, the protest highlights the growing friction between state governments and central investigative agencies. Such confrontations often lead to disruptions in daily life, including traffic restrictions and increased police presence, especially in busy urban areas like Kolkata.

TMC leaders said the party believes democratic dissent is being targeted through investigations, while stressing that elected governments should be allowed to function without pressure. Supporters at the march echoed concerns about transparency and fairness in the use of investigative powers.

Officials maintained law and order during the demonstration, with no major incidents reported. The Enforcement Directorate has not commented publicly on the protest. Political observers say the episode reflects wider national debates over agency autonomy and political accountability, with further responses from both sides expected in the coming days.