Calcutta HC questions WBSSC’s new hiring rules defying 2016 norms, seeks State clarification

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday raised questions on the recruitment notification issued by the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) to fill 25,753 posts left vacant following the Supreme Court’s cancellation of appointments in teaching and non-teaching categories. The notification, issued in May 2025, outlines a revised selection process.

The single bench of Justice Saugata Bhattacharyya asked why the WBSSC altered the recruitment criteria when the Supreme Court had directed that the new process should follow the same rules applicable in 2016. According to the new notification, the written examination carries 60 marks, an increase from the 55 marks assigned in the 2016 recruitment process. The weightage for academic qualifications has been reduced from 35 to 10 marks.

Two additional criteria have been introduced in the May notification: 10 marks for previous teaching experience and 10 marks for lecture demonstration. These components were not part of the 2016 selection model. The High Court has sought an explanation from the commission on why these new weightage components were introduced despite the apex court’s clear direction.

The court also questioned why the notification did not prohibit the participation of candidates previously marked as “ineligible.” In its April 2025 order, the Supreme Court had clearly directed that those disqualified earlier should not be allowed to appear in the fresh recruitment. Justice Bhattacharyya stated that the notification should have explicitly included this restriction.

The High Court has directed the WBSSC and the state government to submit their responses on both issues — the change in selection criteria and the eligibility of disqualified candidates. Further hearing in the matter will proceed after receiving their clarifications.