ED Summons West Bengal Ministers in Job Scandal Inquiry

Key Takeaways

ED summons two West Bengal ministers over job scandal.

Ministers Sujit Bose and Rathin Ghosh are facing scrutiny.

Investigations include extensive raids and searches.

Parallel probe initiated by the CBI.

Political implications arise ahead of Assembly elections.

Kolkata, April 3 (NationPress) - On Friday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summoned two ministers from the West Bengal Cabinet for inquiries related to the significant cash-for-municipalities job scandal in the state. Fire Services Minister Sujit Bose and Food & Supplies Minister Rathin Ghosh have been called to answer questions as part of this investigation. Both ministers are currently contesting elections as candidates of the Trinamool Congress.

Bose is scheduled to visit the ED's Salt Lake office on April 6, while Ghosh is expected there on April 9. Ghosh had last faced questioning by ED officials regarding the job case in January 2024, whereas Bose underwent interrogation in October 2025.

During previous investigations, the ED executed extensive raids on both Bose's residences and offices, as well as those of his close associates. This investigation into the cash-for-municipalities job scandal first emerged when ED officials were conducting searches connected to a different money laundering case involving Ayan Shil, a promoter linked to the Trinamool Congress, associated with the cash-for-school jobs scam in West Bengal.

In tandem, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has initiated its own probe into the municipalities’ job case, following directives from the Calcutta High Court. As the investigations progressed, numerous prominent individuals, including state ministers and leaders from the ruling party, have come under scrutiny.

Earlier this week, the ED also interrogated a Trinamool Congress legislator and a Member-Mayor-in-Council (MMIC) from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation in relation to an illegal land-grabbing case. This legislator is also vying for election as a Trinamool Congress candidate.

The leadership of Trinamool Congress has labeled the recent actions by the ED as a strategic maneuver aimed at undermining party leaders and candidates in the lead-up to the crucial two-phase Assembly elections scheduled later this month.

The elections are set for April 23 (covering 152 Assembly constituencies) and April 29 (for the remaining 42 constituencies), with results to be announced on May 4.

Point of View

The ongoing investigations by the ED and CBI into the municipalities' job case reflect a broader narrative of accountability and transparency in governance. As the political landscape heats up ahead of the Assembly polls, these developments underscore the challenges that political leaders face amidst allegations of corruption.

NationPress

16 Jul 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cash-for-municipalities job case?

The cash-for-municipalities job case involves allegations of corruption and illegal practices in the recruitment processes within West Bengal's municipalities, leading to significant financial misconduct.

Who are the ministers summoned by the ED?

The ministers summoned by the ED are Sujit Bose, the Fire Services Minister, and Rathin Ghosh, the Food & Supplies Minister, both of whom are Trinamool Congress candidates.

When are the upcoming Assembly elections in West Bengal?

The Assembly elections in West Bengal are scheduled for April 23 and April 29, with results expected on May 4.

What actions has the ED taken in the investigation?

The ED has conducted extensive raids and searches at the residences and offices of the ministers involved, as well as their associates, in connection with the job scandal.

Why is this investigation politically significant?

The investigation is politically significant as it surfaces amidst critical elections, potentially influencing voter perceptions and party dynamics, particularly for the ruling Trinamool Congress.