The Calcutta High Court has rejected the bail plea of former Education Minister Partha Chatterjee, who is embroiled in the cash-for-jobs recruitment scandal involving the illegal appointment of Assistant Teachers under the West Bengal Board of Primary Education.
The decision came from a single bench of the High Court, which carefully reviewed the evidence, including substantial amounts of money and assets, as well as jewellery seized from Chatterjee and his co-accused, Arpita Mukherjee. The court considered various factors, including the relationship between the accused, the assets seized, and the potential influence on the ongoing investigation.
The court’s ruling highlighted the trust and financial connections established between Chatterjee and Mukherjee, noting that Chatterjee was the nominee in bank accounts and insurance policies related to Mukherjee. Additionally, properties purchased through different companies were registered in Mukherjee’s name. These findings led the court to conclude that Chatterjee had not met the conditions required for bail under Section 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) presented arguments supporting Chatterjee’s continued detention, citing large recoveries of illegal proceeds from Mukherjee’s residence, who is alleged to be Chatterjee’s accomplice. The ED expressed concerns that releasing Chatterjee could lead to potential interference with the ongoing probe, given his stature as a former high-level minister.
The case revolves around a widespread scam where deserving candidates were overlooked for teaching positions, and ineligible candidates were appointed through corrupt means. Seizures totaling Rs 21.90 crores, along with gold jewellery, were made during the investigation, pointing to the magnitude of the alleged money laundering scheme.
Chatterjee’s counsel argued for bail, citing his age, health conditions, and prolonged custody without formal charges being framed. However, the court maintained that the corroborating evidence linking Chatterjee to the illicit proceeds and the risk of tampering with witnesses necessitated his continued detention.
The court’s decision underscores the gravity of the allegations and the ongoing efforts to address corruption in public appointments. Chatterjee, despite his health concerns and legal arguments, remains in custody pending further developments in the case.
The ruling signifies a stern stance against white-collar crime and emphasizes the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring a fair and thorough investigation into matters of financial misconduct and corruption at all levels.