The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is investigating the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for allegedly transferring Rs 160 crore to a private firm to purchase a luxury jet and helicopter, which were later leased back to the party. The probe centers on Carewell Aviation India Pvt Ltd, which received the funds between April 2023 and June 2026.
ED Freezes TMC Bank Accounts in Money Laundering Case
The ED has frozen three TMC bank accounts containing Rs 440 crore as part of its first standalone investigation into a political party’s financial dealings. According to the agency, Carewell Aviation used Rs 112 crore of the transferred amount to buy an Embraer Legacy 600 jet and an Agusta 109 SP helicopter. An additional Rs 16 crore for the helicopter reportedly came from a Cayman Islands-based entity.
The aircraft were subsequently leased back to TMC, raising concerns about potential fund misappropriation. The ED suspects the transactions were structured to conceal the true purpose of the expenditures.
TMC Responds to Allegations, Calls Probe Politically Driven
The party has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that all donations were properly reported to the Election Commission and Income Tax Department. TMC leaders accuse the ruling BJP of using investigative agencies to target opposition parties. The case originated from a complaint by rebel TMC MLA Biswanath Das, now associated with Ritabrata Banerjee’s faction.
Key Details of the Aircraft Involved
- Embraer Legacy 600: A mid-size business jet featuring luxury interiors, including convertible flatbed seats.
- Agusta 109 SP: A high-speed, twin-engine VIP helicopter manufactured by Leonardo (formerly AgustaWestland).
- Funding Sources: Rs 160 crore transferred from TMC accounts to Carewell Aviation; Rs 16 crore from a Cayman Islands-based company.
The ED’s investigation is ongoing, with further developments expected as authorities examine whether the aircraft leasing arrangement was used to siphon party funds. Observers will watch for updates as the probe advances.
