RTI Inquiry Launched into Partha Chatterjee's MLA Activities
Synopsis
In a significant political move, an RTI application has been filed to scrutinize the activities of former Bengal Education Minister Partha Chatterjee as an MLA. The inquiry reflects the public's demand for transparency regarding his performance during his tumultuous term.
Key Takeaways
The RTI application seeks to clarify former MLA Partha Chatterjee's legislative performance.
Chatterjee spent a significant portion of his term in jail due to legal issues.
The inquiry reflects growing public demand for transparency in political accountability.
Chatterjee's initial attempts to return to politics were met with silence from party leadership.
This case may set a precedent for future inquiries into political representatives' actions.
Kolkata, March 2 (NationPress) A petition has been submitted under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005, seeking insights into the actions of former West Bengal Education Minister and former Trinamool Congress secretary general, Partha Chatterjee, during his tenure as the legislator representing Behala (Paschim) Assembly constituency in the South 24 Parganas district over the past five years.
Chatterjee has served as a legislator from this constituency for four consecutive terms since 2006, with his most recent election occurring in 2021. However, a significant portion of his time in office has been spent in jail following his arrest in July 2022, related to the multi-crore cash-for-school jobs scandal.
Although he was granted bail in November 2025, Chatterjee distanced himself from political engagements, neglecting the responsibilities of addressing voter issues in his constituency.
The RTI application, filed by Subhrajit Saha, a Calcutta High Court lawyer, asserts that he is acting on behalf of the voters of Behala (Paschim), who deserve transparency regarding Chatterjee's performance as their elected representative over the last five years.
In his request, Saha has asked for information regarding Chatterjee's contributions in the West Bengal Assembly since 2021, including his speeches, zero-hour submissions, attention calls, and motions raised, among other details.
Furthermore, the application seeks to uncover Chatterjee’s activities as a member of various Assembly standing committees, detailing his attendance in meetings, any proposals he made, and the arguments presented.
After his release on bail, Chatterjee initially expressed a willingness to resume his role as a legislator and attend Assembly sessions. He attempted to reach out to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Trinamool Congress general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, and the party’s state president Subrata Bakshi.
Unfortunately, his efforts to connect did not yield any responses, leading him to withdraw from all political undertakings and remain confined to his home.
Point of View
Setting a precedent for transparency in governance.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the RTI application filed against Partha Chatterjee?
The RTI application aims to obtain details about Partha Chatterjee's performance as an MLA, including his legislative activities and engagement with voters during his term.
Why was Partha Chatterjee in jail?
Partha Chatterjee was arrested in July 2022 in connection with a multi-crore cash-for-school job scandal.
What information is being sought through the RTI application?
The application seeks details about Chatterjee’s speeches in the Assembly, his participation in standing committees, and any proposals he made.
What has been Chatterjee's political engagement after his release?
After being released on bail, Chatterjee attempted to re-engage in political activities but ultimately withdrew and has remained inactive.
Who filed the RTI application?
The RTI application was filed by Subhrajit Saha, a lawyer at the Calcutta High Court, on behalf of the voters of Behala (Paschim).
