Supreme Court Halts CBI Probe into West Bengal Officials Amid Teacher Recruitment Controversy

The Supreme Court has intervened to stay a directive from the Calcutta High Court that called for a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the involvement of West Bengal government officials in the alleged teacher recruitment scam. This decision comes as a partial relief to the state administration, which has been under scrutiny over the appointments of 25,753 teachers and non-teaching staff in state-run and state-aided schools.

A bench comprising Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Justice J.B. Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra issued the stay order, indicating that the CBI should refrain from initiating further investigations against state officials pending further review. The bench stated, "We will stay the direction which says the CBI will undertake further investigation against officials in the state government." This move temporarily shields state officials from immediate investigative actions by the central agency.

The controversy stems from the Calcutta High Court's April 22, 2024, ruling, which invalidated the appointments made by the West Bengal School Service Commission during the 2016 recruitment process. The high court had identified significant irregularities, including tampering with Optical Mark Recognition sheets and unauthorized rank advancements, leading to the annulment of these appointments. Additionally, the high court had directed the CBI to investigate the creation of supernumerary posts purportedly used to accommodate these appointments, even suggesting the possibility of custodial interrogation of involved officials.

In response, the West Bengal government appealed to the Supreme Court, challenging the high court's decision. The state's petition argued that the annulment was arbitrary and failed to consider the broader implications on the educational system, potentially bringing it to a standstill. The government emphasized that the appointments were made following due consultations and with the Governor's approval.

While the Supreme Court's stay provides temporary relief regarding the probe into state officials, it did not overturn the high court's decision to cancel the appointments. The apex court has scheduled further hearings to delve deeper into the matter, indicating that a comprehensive review is forthcoming.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her satisfaction with the Supreme Court's intervention, stating she felt "very happy and mentally relaxed" upon receiving justice from the apex court. She extended her congratulations to the teaching community and acknowledged the relief this decision brings to those affected by the annulled appointments.