Bivas Adhikari back under CBI lens in Bengal recruitment scam; Summoned over asset trail, job deals

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday summoned Trinamool Congress leader Bivas Adhikari once again in connection with the West Bengal school recruitment scam. He reached the CBI office in Newtown around 11 AM. According to sources, Adhikari’s name had surfaced during the interrogation of arrested accused Kuntal Ghosh. Investigators had earlier questioned Adhikari multiple times regarding his alleged role in facilitating appointments in state-run schools.

Sources indicate that Bivas Adhikari had served as the president of the Bengal Teachers' Training Association between 2012 and 2018. Investigators are probing his links with the recognition and approval process of certain teachers’ training colleges during that period. Recently, CBI officials conducted searches at Adhikari’s residence, office, and an ashram reportedly associated with him, from where several documents were recovered. The agency is currently examining the source of Adhikari’s assets and his role in the alleged recruitment irregularities.

Before entering the CBI office today, Bivas Adhikari told reporters, “I have been called to submit some documents. I also have to say something in court, that’s why I’ve been called.” The investigation continues into how jobs were allegedly arranged through him, and whether those appointments were made in exchange for money.