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In the wake of the Supreme Court’s cancellation of 25,000+ teaching and non-teaching appointments, the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) has announced that it cannot complete a fresh recruitment process within three months. WBSSC Chairperson Siddhartha Majumdar said the commission will now seek legal advice on the eligibility of candidates for the upcoming recruitment.
WBSSC Seeks Legal Clarification on WB Teacher Recruitment
Following the Supreme Court’s directive on 4 April 2025, the WBSSC is preparing to conduct fresh examinations. However, the Commission is uncertain whether only previously shortlisted “untainted” candidates or new applicants will be eligible to appear. Siddhartha Majumdar stated that legal consultation is necessary before proceeding with fresh written tests for teaching and non-teaching posts.
In the 2016 recruitment drive, around 26 lakh candidates applied, and nearly 23 lakh appeared for the exam. Of them, 1.41 lakh were aspiring teachers for classes 9-10 and about 1.5 lakh for classes 11-12, while the rest applied for non-teaching roles.
SC Upholds Calcutta HC Orders on Misconduct of WB Teacher Recruitment 2016
Supreme Court Observes Compromised WB Teacher Selection Process
The Supreme Court noted that the 2016 recruitment process was “intentionally compromised,” with the WBSSC allegedly covering up irregularities. The court emphasized that “untainted” candidates could reapply through their respective departments, which must process applications within three months. WBSSC will soon release fresh recruitment for teaching and non-teaching posts.
State Government and Political Reactions on WB Teacher Recruitment 2025
West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu confirmed that the government would follow the court’s order. CM Mamata Banerjee also expressed support for deserving candidates and called a meeting on 7 April 2025 with affected teachers. Meanwhile, opposition parties have blamed the state government and the WBSSC for the irregularities.
Conclusion
As the WBSSC gears up for legal consultation and a fresh recruitment drive, the state’s education system remains under stress, with over 25,000 school staff now off-duty due to the Supreme Court’s verdict.