'Can't Agree With Verdict': Mamata Banerjee After SC Terminates Jobs Of 25,000 Teachers In Bengal

Mamata Banerjee said she respected the judiciary, but could not accept the ruling. She added that the verdict could destabilise the state's education system.  

File photo of West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee.

Source : PTI

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday criticised the Supreme Court's verdict after it upheld the Calcutta high court’s order cancelling 25,753 appointments made through the School Service Commission (SSC).

Addressing a press conference, Mamata Banerjee said she has the highest regard for the judiciary but could not accept the Supreme Court's verdict invalidating the appointments of teachers and other staff in state-run schools. She added that the verdict could destabilise the state's education system and emphasised that her government would abide by the SC's decision.

"While I have the highest respect for the judiciary and judges, I cannot accept the judgment from a humanitarian point of view, she said. As a citizen of this country, I have every right to an opinion. I respect the judge and the judiciary, but I can't agree with the judgment," Mamata Banerjee said. 

"How many more will be targeted? How many people will be punished for the crime of one individual? If given the responsibility, we will investigate the matter. The School Service Commission is an autonomous body, and we do not interfere in its functioning," she added.

A Supreme Court bench comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar upheld a Calcutta High Court verdict annulling the appointments and ordering the Trinamool Congress government in the state to initiate a fresh selection process.

"The SSC (School Service Commission) is an autonomous body. We, as the state government, will not interfere in their work. We will abide by the court's verdict," she said.

"Candidates who are already employees need not be asked to refund or make any payment," she added.

The CM alleged that the BJP was deliberately targeting the state's education system. "Does the BJP want to ensure the collapse of West Bengal's education system," she questioned.

The West Bengal CM also said that the BJP brought Waqf (Amendment) Bill to divide the country. "When BJP-led regime is ousted and new govt formed, will bring amendment to nullify Waqf Bill," Mamata said.