Bengal SSC scam: CJI calls 26,000 job cancellations case ‘impossible to verify,’ verdict postponed

The Supreme Court on Monday heard arguments regarding the cancellation of 26,000 teaching jobs in West Bengal, with Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna stating that determining the actual facts in the case has become "almost impossible." The bench heard submissions from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the School Service Commission (SSC), and the state government before reserving its verdict. The CBI argued that the decision to cancel the jobs should stand, while the SSC acknowledged irregularities such as "rank jumps" and non-panel recruitments but denied knowledge of OMR sheet tampering.

During the hearing, the West Bengal government opposed the mass termination of teachers, warning that such a move could disrupt the state's education system. The session, which started at 2 PM in Chief Justice Khanna's courtroom, lasted for approximately two hours. The Chief Justice questioned what action the court could take in such a situation. After hearing all arguments, the court postponed its ruling without specifying a date for the verdict.

The case involves allegations of large-scale corruption in teacher recruitment through the SSC. The matter has seen multiple legal proceedings, with affected candidates challenging their dismissal and authorities investigating recruitment irregularities. The Supreme Court's final ruling will determine the fate of thousands of teachers whose jobs are at risk due to the ongoing legal battle.