Calcutta High Court Grants Bail to Ex-Minister in School Jobs Scam

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2025-09-26 09:47:09 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-06-30 06:22:44

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In a significant development in the Bengal school jobs scam case, the Calcutta High Court has granted bail to former Minister Partha Chatterjee, who has been in jail since his arrest in July 2022. The court's decision comes as a potential turning point in the high-profile case that has rocked the state's political landscape.

Chatterjee, a prominent figure in West Bengal politics, was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with the alleged irregularities in the recruitment of teachers and non-teaching staff in state-run schools. The ED's investigation revealed a massive scam involving the illegal appointment of teachers and staff, with Chatterjee at the center of the controversy. The former Minister, who held the Education portfolio, was accused of receiving bribes and orchestrating the fraudulent appointments, leading to his arrest and subsequent resignation from the state cabinet.

The bail order, however, comes with a catch. While the court has granted bail, it has imposed stringent conditions, including a substantial bail bond of Rs. 2 lakh and a directive to surrender his passport. Additionally, Chatterjee has been ordered to refrain from tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses. These conditions indicate the court's cautious approach, ensuring that the investigation can proceed without interference.

Despite the bail grant, Chatterjee's immediate release from jail is uncertain. The ED has indicated its intention to challenge the bail order in the Supreme Court, seeking a stay on the High Court's decision. This move reflects the agency's determination to keep the former Minister in custody, considering the seriousness of the charges. As the legal battle intensifies, the case continues to capture public attention, raising questions about the integrity of the state's education system and the accountability of those in power.

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