The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed West Bengal teachers, whose appointments were recently cancelled due to recruitment irregularities, to continue teaching for now—only if they are not connected to the scam. These teachers can remain in service until a fresh recruitment process, which must start by May 31, is completed by December 31, as directed by the court.

The apex court has ordered the state government to begin a new recruitment process by May 31. The timeline is strict: the selection and appointment process must be completed by the end of this year. The court’s decision brings temporary relief to those affected, while ensuring a clean recruitment drive going forward.

This announcement comes after the Supreme Court’s earlier order from April 3, where it upheld the Calcutta High Court's cancellation of over 25,000 jobs given through the 2016 School Service Commission recruitment. The court found clear evidence of widespread manipulation in the hiring process.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee | Credit: X

The 2016 recruitment was marred by serious violations. Investigations uncovered blank answer sheets being accepted, OMR sheets being tampered with, and merit lists manipulated to favour those who allegedly paid bribes. These revelations led to the cancellation of 25,753 appointments, both teaching and non-teaching.

The Supreme Court’s this order ensures temporary continuity, but insists on long-term accountability. The focus is now on shifting to a transparent hiring process.