Did the Special PMLA Court Reject the ED's Custody Plea for Bengal Minister?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, a special court in Kolkata has denied the ED's request for custody of Bengal Minister Chandranath Sinha in a major recruitment scam. With his interim bail extended, Sinha asserts his innocence, promising cooperation with the ongoing investigation. This case unfolds amid serious allegations of financial irregularities.
Key Takeaways
- Special PMLA court
- Minister Sinha's interim bail has been extended.
- Continued cooperation with the ED is mandated.
- Claims of innocence were asserted by Sinha.
- ED's charge sheet highlights significant financial irregularities.
Kolkata, Sep 24 (NationPress) A special court operating under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in Kolkata has dismissed the Enforcement Directorate's request for the custody of Chandranath Sinha, a West Bengal minister, regarding the extensive cash-for-school-jobs scam in the state.
The proceedings wrapped up on September 20; however, the presiding judge opted to reserve the decision until Wednesday.
The ED aimed to secure a seven-day custody for Sinha, who oversees the West Bengal Correction Services, as well as the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Textiles Departments.
On the same day, the judge extended Sinha's interim bail until further notice.
Additionally, the judge instructed Sinha to visit the ED office in Kolkata for two more days of questioning and to assist the central investigative agency.
As per the court's order, Sinha is required to appear at the ED's office on Thursday and Friday.
Following the court's ruling, Sinha expressed, "I have complete faith in our judicial system. I have committed no wrongdoing," speaking to the media after his relief was granted.
On September 6, Sinha had surrendered to the same PMLA court concerning the ED's investigation into the alleged recruitment fraud, which led to his interim bail being granted on a personal bond of Rs 10,000, with specific conditions attached.
Earlier this month, the ED filed its sixth supplementary charge sheet in the special court, outlining numerous financial discrepancies linked to Sinha and his family.
This document detailed significant cash deposits made into a joint account belonging to the minister and his spouse, Kuntala Sinha, at a public sector bank in Kolkata.
According to the charge sheet, a total of Rs 1.18 crore was deposited into this joint account between January 2016 and November 2019, coinciding with the peak of the alleged school recruitment scam.
Point of View
I emphasize that justice must prevail. The rejection of the ED's custody plea for Minister Chandranath Sinha reflects the importance of upholding legal protocols. We must closely observe how this high-profile case develops and affects the political climate in West Bengal. Our commitment is to report on this matter with fairness and integrity.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the court's decision regarding the ED's custody plea?
The special PMLA court in Kolkata rejected the Enforcement Directorate's request for the custody of West Bengal Minister Chandranath Sinha.
What are the implications of this case?
The case revolves around a significant cash-for-school-jobs scam, and the outcome may influence public trust in government and political accountability.
How has Minister Sinha responded to the allegations?
Sinha has expressed confidence in the judicial system and maintains his innocence regarding the alleged misconduct.
What steps are being taken by the ED?
The ED is continuing its investigation and has instructed Sinha to cooperate with further questioning.
What financial irregularities have been reported?
The ED's charge sheet details large cash deposits in Sinha's joint account, linking them to the scam's timeline.
