A fresh controversy has erupted over primary teacher recruitment in West Bengal, with allegations of malpractice in the 2016 and 2020 hiring processes. Following a Calcutta High Court directive, both recruitment panels may be scrapped, jeopardizing the jobs of 59,000 primary teachers. Lawyer Firdous Shamim, representing the petitioners, stated, “The SSC investigation uncovered systemic fraud, including forged documents and merit list manipulation. If the court cancels these panels, the entire recruitment process will restart, causing chaos.”
Background of the Recruitment Scam
Accusations of corruption in primary teacher recruitment are not new in West Bengal. The 2016 and 2020 panels have long faced allegations of favoritism, tampering with scores, and selecting unqualified candidates. The West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) submitted a report to the court after investigating these claims, prompting the High Court to order a reevaluation of the recruitment process.
59000 Primary Teacher Jobs at Risk as 2016 & 2020 Panels Face Cancellation in West Bengal
Role of the Court and SSC
Firdous Shamim emphasized, “The SSC report proves that many candidates were fraudulently appointed, even those absent from merit lists.” The court is now examining the legality of the panels. If canceled, all teachers hired through these panels could lose their jobs. The issue has sparked protests among teachers and political parties, with the opposition blaming the ruling TMC government for institutionalized corruption.
Impact and Potential Consequences
59,000 teachers risk unemployment.
Recruitment redo could delay appointments and increase costs.
Legal battles likely between affected teachers and authorities.
Damage to the state’s education policy credibility.
Reactions from Teachers and Politicians
Affected teachers argue, “We are innocent victims of political games.” Meanwhile, opposition parties demand accountability, alleging, “The TMC turned recruitment into a scam.” The state government has yet to issue an official response.
Next Steps
The court’s final verdict will determine the fate of the panels. If canceled, fresh exams or a new oversight committee may be mandated. Teacher unions are preparing legal challenges, while experts warn that prolonged uncertainty could destabilize West Bengal’s primary education system.
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