AIBA WARNS AGAINST EXECUTIVE INTERFERENCE IN INVESTIGATIONS AND COURTS* New Delhi, January 11 : The All India Bar Association (AIBA) has expressed its grave concern and strong condemnation over recent developments in West Bengal, wherein the Chief Minister, Ms. Mamata Banerjee, is reported to have interfered with lawful raid

[11/01, 10:36] +*AIBA WARNS AGAINST EXECUTIVE INTERFERENCE IN INVESTIGATIONS AND COURTS*

New Delhi, January 11 :

The All India Bar Association (AIBA) has expressed its grave concern and strong condemnation over recent developments in West Bengal, wherein the Chief Minister, Ms. Mamata Banerjee, is reported to have interfered with lawful raid proceedings, allegedly taken away official documents, and subsequently been involved in circumstances that led to an unprecedented situation before the Calcutta High Court, compelling the High Court to adjourn the matter to the 14th instant.

In a statement, AIBA Chairman & Senior Advocate Dr. Adish C. Aggarwala, said that the rule of law is the cornerstone of India’s constitutional democracy and that no individual, howsoever high the office held, is above the law or beyond judicial scrutiny. He emphasized that investigative and enforcement agencies are mandated to act strictly in accordance with law, and any obstruction or interference in the discharge of their statutory duties strikes at the very foundation of constitutional governance.

Dr. Aggarwala further stated that the incident was equally disturbing for its impact on the authority, dignity, and independent functioning of constitutional courts. “The judiciary must be allowed to function freely and fearlessly, without pressure or intimidation. Any situation that forces a High Court to adjourn proceedings due to surrounding circumstances raises serious concerns regarding institutional respect and constitutional propriety,” he said.

Highlighting his experience as former President of the Supreme Court Bar Association, Dr. Aggarwala underscored that constitutional functionaries bear a higher obligation to uphold the law rather than weaken it. He noted that public faith in the justice delivery system depends upon the unwavering principle that law must take its own course, uninfluenced by political power.

Calling for institutional restraint, Dr. Aggarwala, who also served as Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council of India, said, “We urge all authorities to respect the separation of powers, refrain from interference in ongoing investigations, and ensure the sanctity of judicial proceedings. Political differences cannot justify short-circuiting legal processes or exerting pressure on institutions.”

The AIBA appealed to the competent authorities to ensure accountability strictly in accordance with law and to take all necessary steps to safeguard the independence of investigative agencies and the majesty of the judiciary. “Democracy endures not through dominance, but through constitutional discipline, institutional respect, and fidelity to the rule of law,” Dr. Aggarwala asserted.

(Dr. Adish C Aggarwala)
Senior Advocate
Chairman, All India Bar Association
Ex. President, Supreme Court Bar Association
Ex. Vice Chairman, Bar Council of India
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