Did Calcutta HC Question the Qualifications of Bengal CM's Sister-in-Law in College Committee Selection?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court is scrutinizing the eligibility of Kajori Banerjee, sister-in-law of Bengal's CM, for her role as President of a prestigious college's working committee. This ruling raises significant questions about educational qualifications in administrative roles. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court upheld the need for a detailed hearing on eligibility.
- The case centers on Kajori Banerjee and her qualifications for a key educational role.
- Legal standards regarding educational governance are being scrutinized.
- Interim stays were granted regarding the college Principal's notice and suspension.
- Further hearings are scheduled to continue the investigation.
Kolkata, Sep 19 (NationPress) A division bench of the Calcutta High Court upheld a prior ruling from a single-judge bench, emphasizing the necessity for a comprehensive hearing regarding the qualifications and eligibility of Kajori Banerjee, who is the sister-in-law of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, for her role as President of the working committee at one of Kolkata's prominent girls' colleges.
On September 17, the single-judge bench led by Justice Bivas Pattanayak raised concerns about Kajori Banerjee's selection as President of the Rani Birla Girls' College working committee, questioning how someone who is not an educationist could be appointed to such a significant position, especially given her role as a Councillor within the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC).
The law stipulates that a college management committee's president must be a person involved in education. Given this, Justice Pattanayak mandated a thorough examination of the situation, pointing out that there was no indication of her educational affiliation as merely serving as a Councillor does not meet the criteria.
"Thus, it is crucial to determine whether her (Kajori Banerjee's) appointment is lawful," the judge stated earlier this week.
In response, Kajori Banerjee filed an appeal with the division bench comprising Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty and Justice Reetobrata Kumar Mitra, contesting the single-judge order.
However, on Friday, the division bench dismissed her petition, reaffirming the single-judge bench's ruling.
The division bench also noted that the case will continue to be heard by the single-judge bench, with the next hearing scheduled for eight weeks from now.
On September 17, Justice Pattanayak's bench also granted an interim stay on the show-cause notice and suspension order that had been issued to college Principal Srabanti Bhattacharya by Kajori Banerjee the previous month.
This interim stay will remain in effect for another eight weeks, with the subsequent hearing set for six weeks later.
The show-cause notice and suspension order were initially issued on August 29.
The college principal contested these actions before the single-judge bench led by Justice Biswajit Basu.
During the proceedings, the state government counsel requested Justice Basu to recuse himself, which he reluctantly agreed to, expressing his disappointment over the situation.
Ultimately, the case was referred to Justice Pattanayak's bench for further review.
When the matter was heard on September 17, Justice Pattanayak also ordered an interim stay on both the show-cause notice and suspension order.
Point of View
My stance remains focused on the principles of justice and accountability. The Calcutta High Court's decision to question the appointment of Kajori Banerjee reflects a commitment to uphold educational standards. It's imperative that individuals in positions of influence within educational institutions possess the requisite qualifications and experience. This case is not just about one individual, but about the integrity of our educational system as a whole.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main issue in the Calcutta High Court ruling?
The main issue revolved around the eligibility of Kajori Banerjee as President of the college's working committee, with the court questioning her qualifications as she is not an educationist.
What did the single-judge bench order regarding Kajori Banerjee's appointment?
The single-judge bench ordered a detailed hearing to assess whether Kajori Banerjee's appointment was legal, given the stipulations concerning educational qualifications.
What interim measures were taken by the court?
The court issued an interim stay on the show-cause notice and suspension of college Principal Srabanti Bhattacharya, pending further hearings.
What is the next step in this legal matter?
The case will continue to be heard at the single-judge bench, with the next hearing scheduled for eight weeks from now.
How does this case impact the governance of educational institutions?
This case emphasizes the importance of having qualified individuals in leadership roles within educational institutions, ensuring that governance is aligned with educational standards.
