Thu Feb 06 16:36:23 UTC 2025: **Kolkata Teachers Clash with Police Amidst Ongoing School Recruitment Scam Probe**

KOLKATA, INDIA – February 6, 2025 – Protests erupted in Kolkata today as teachers, appointed through the West Bengal School Service Commission (SSC) recruitment in 2016, clashed with police. The demonstration occurred as the 8th Bengal Global Business Summit concluded nearby. The teachers are protesting the ongoing Supreme Court case investigating alleged irregularities in the SSC’s recruitment process.

The Supreme Court is currently hearing arguments related to approximately 26,000 appointments. While some 2016 appointees claim they were rightfully hired and are being unfairly implicated, others admit that irregularities occurred. Both groups are demanding the segregation of “worthy” and “unworthy” candidates before any final decisions are made regarding their employment.

This morning’s protest, which began near the Maidan metro station and aimed for the Chief Minister’s residence, was met with police intervention. Police claim the protestors assembled without permission, leading to a scuffle, multiple arrests, and traffic disruption. Protesters allege police brutality, stating their march was a last resort after feeling ignored by the authorities. They are calling on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to intervene and ensure a fair representation of facts in the Supreme Court hearings.

The protest occurred in stark contrast to the positive image of West Bengal projected at the Bengal Global Business Summit, where Chief Minister Banerjee emphasized the state’s “ease of doing business” and “strike-free environment.” The ongoing legal battle and today’s protest cast a shadow over these claims.

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