Calcutta High Court Grants Bail to Former WBCSSC Adviser in Teachers' Recruitment Scam ED Case
In a significant development in the ongoing teachers' recruitment scam investigation, the Calcutta High Court on Friday granted bail to Santi Prasad Sinha, the former adviser to the West Bengal Central School Service Commission (WBCSSC). The bail pertains specifically to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) case probing alleged corruption in teacher appointments across the state.
Bail Conditions Imposed by Justice Jay Sengupta
Justice Jay Sengupta, presiding over the case, approved Sinha's bail application with several stringent conditions. The court ordered Sinha to furnish a personal bond of Rs 5 lakh as security. Additionally, he must surrender his passport to authorities to prevent any potential flight risk.
The bail conditions further mandate that Sinha cannot change his residential address without obtaining prior permission from the court. He is also restricted from leaving his residential area without authorization, ensuring he remains accessible to investigators.
Communication and Cooperation Requirements
Justice Sengupta specified that Sinha must provide two active phone numbers to the local police station and the investigating officer (IO). This requirement ensures authorities can contact him immediately for any summons or inquiries related to the case.
The court emphasized that Sinha must cooperate fully with the investigation, appearing before the investigating officer whenever called. This condition aims to maintain the integrity of the ongoing probe while allowing Sinha temporary freedom.
Background of the Case and Previous Legal Proceedings
Santi Prasad Sinha has been in judicial custody since 2022 for his alleged involvement in the widespread teachers' recruitment corruption scandal that has rocked West Bengal's education system. The scam involves allegations of irregularities, bribery, and manipulation in the appointment of teachers through the WBCSSC.
Notably, Sinha had previously secured bail from the Supreme Court last year in the related Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) case concerning the same recruitment scam. The dual investigations by both the ED and CBI highlight the seriousness and complexity of the allegations.
Implications of the Bail Decision
The Calcutta High Court's decision to grant bail represents a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings surrounding the teachers' recruitment scam. While it provides temporary relief to Sinha, the strict conditions imposed reflect the court's awareness of the case's sensitivity and the need for continued investigation.
The ED case continues to examine potential money laundering aspects connected to the recruitment irregularities. Legal experts suggest the bail conditions are designed to balance the accused's rights with the requirements of a thorough investigation into one of West Bengal's most prominent corruption cases in recent years.
