Mamata Banerjee Responds to Supreme Court Ruling Invalidating 25,753 SSC Appointments in West Bengal

In a high-stakes ruling, the Supreme Court of India on Thursday upheld the Calcutta High Court’s decision that invalidated 25,753 appointments made by the West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) in 2016. The move has triggered strong reactions from the state’s leadership, particularly Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who declared that she reserves the right not to accept the verdict.

Apex Court Labels Recruitment Process 'Fraudulent'

A Bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice PV Sanjiv Kumar concluded that the 2016 recruitment process was “vitiated by manipulation and fraud.” The bench chose not to interfere with the High Court's findings.

The issue dates back to a controversial recruitment drive where 23 lakh candidates competed for 24,640 posts, yet 25,753 appointment letters were issued—clearly exceeding the officially sanctioned vacancies. Several appointees were selected after the expiry of the recruitment period or even after submitting blank OMR sheets.

CM Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Verdict, Targets BJP

While addressing the media, TMC leader Mamata Banerjee stated:

“I have the highest regard for the judiciary, but I also have the right not to accept this particular verdict.”

Banerjee confirmed that her government is studying the Supreme Court judgement in detail, indicating a possible legal or political response. She also accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to undermine West Bengal's education system.

Political Fallout: BJP Celebrates Verdict

Reacting swiftly, BJP leader Amit Malviya hailed the court’s decision as a major blow to Mamata Banerjee’s governance:

“Crushing defeat for West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee as the Supreme Court upholds the Calcutta High Court’s decision… The selection process was vitiated by fraud and irreparably tainted.”

Earlier Developments and Implications

The Calcutta High Court had previously ruled that appointees who were hired beyond the sanctioned vacancies, or through fraudulent means, must return all benefits and remuneration with 12% annual interest. The Supreme Court’s verdict reaffirms that order, making it legally binding.

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