Is I-PAC Intruding in Bengal's Administrative Affairs?
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Synopsis
In a bold claim, Suvendu Adhikari alleges that the I-PAC consultancy is meddling in West Bengal's administrative matters, raising questions about legality and ethics. This controversy could have significant implications for political consultancy in India.
Key Takeaways
- Suvendu Adhikari raises concerns over I-PAC's influence.
- The legitimacy of corporate involvement in government is questioned.
- The need for transparency in political consultancy is highlighted.
- Potential legal ramifications are being explored.
- Adhikari plans to take legal steps to address the situation.
Kolkata, Aug 8 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, asserted on Friday that I-PAC, a consultancy involved in shaping public relations strategies for the Trinamool Congress since the 2021 elections, is overstepping its bounds by meddling in the state's administrative affairs.
On Friday morning, Adhikari shared a screenshot on X of an email from Avesh Singh, a representative of I-PAC, directed to the Director of Information and ex-officio Additional Secretary of the state’s Information and Cultural Affairs Department.
The email in question showed the I-PAC representative supplying the government official with drive links to essential design resources for a specific government initiative, 'Amader Para, Amader Samadhan (Our locality, our solution)'.
However, IANS has not verified the authenticity of the screenshot posted by Adhikari.
In addition to sharing the screenshot, Adhikari launched a fierce critique of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, stating, "After allowing Bangladeshi Muslim immigrants to settle in West Bengal, she has now granted I-PAC representatives the freedom to violate the administrative boundaries of the state government."
"Just think about it: a mere associate or executive from a corporate consulting firm dictating terms to a WBCS (Executive) officer, who holds the title of Director of Information and ex-officio Additional Secretary of the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, Government of West Bengal!" Adhikari exclaimed.
He also raised concerns about the silence of Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and West Bengal Civil Service (WBCS) officers regarding the involvement of corporate associates in state administrative affairs.
"Will the WBCS (Executive) Officers' Association and @IASassociation West Bengal Cadre Officers comment on this? Are they comfortable with corporate executives, lacking formal, ethical, and legal ties to the government, controlling state operations and issuing directives to them?" Adhikari questioned.
Furthermore, he challenged the legality of the West Bengal government's decision to include a corporate political firm in daily state affairs while simultaneously providing consulting services to the ruling Trinamool Congress Party and managing their campaign and organizational framework.
"At what cost? Is the state exchequer financing such 'services'? This is not merely an illegal overreach but appears to be a significant financial scam as well," Adhikari asserted.
He concluded his statement by announcing his intention to take necessary legal actions to rectify the system plagued by this "unholy" alliance.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight that allegations of corporate influence in administrative matters underscore the need for transparency and accountability in governance. The concerns raised by Suvendu Adhikari necessitate a comprehensive investigation to uphold the principles of democracy and the integrity of public service in India.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is I-PAC?
I-PAC is a political consultancy that has been involved in strategizing public relations for the Trinamool Congress since the 2021 elections.
What did Suvendu Adhikari claim?
Suvendu Adhikari claimed that I-PAC is interfering in the administrative matters of the West Bengal government.
What evidence did Adhikari provide?
Adhikari shared a screenshot of an email from an I-PAC representative to a state government official, allegedly providing links to design assets for a government project.
What are the legal implications of I-PAC's involvement?
Adhikari questioned the legality of a corporate firm influencing state governance, suggesting that it could constitute an illegal infringement.
What actions is Adhikari planning to take?
Adhikari stated he would pursue legal actions to address the alleged interference and the issues surrounding the relationship between the government and I-PAC.
