Did the ED Confiscate Assets Worth Rs 3.60 Crore from Bengal Minister?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate's recent seizure of assets worth Rs 3.60 crore from West Bengal Minister Chandranath Sinha raises serious questions about corruption in educational job placements. This shocking revelation highlights the ongoing battle against malpractices in government jobs in India.
Key Takeaways
- ED seizes Rs 3.60 crore from Minister Chandranath Sinha.
- 10 properties belonging to Sinha and family confiscated.
- Investigation linked to cash-for-school jobs scandal.
- Allegations include collecting Rs 12.75 crore from ineligible candidates.
- Further questioning of Sinha is expected.
Kolkata, Jan 2 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has confiscated assets totaling Rs 3.60 crore belonging to Chandranath Sinha, the West Bengal Minister responsible for micro, small, and medium enterprises and textiles. This action is part of the ongoing investigation into his alleged role in the cash-for-school job scandal in the region.
According to informed sources, the ED has seized a total of 10 properties owned by Sinha, along with those belonging to his wife and son, with the combined market value approximating Rs 3.60 crore.
“The valuations are based on the prices at the time of property registration. However, current market evaluations suggest these properties are worth nearly double. Should the minister fail to provide clear evidence regarding the funds used for these assets, they may be auctioned,” stated an ED insider.
Sinha, who also oversees the correctional services department, has been named an accused in the ED’s chargesheet concerning the school job issue. The allegations against him include collecting Rs 12.75 crore from various ineligible candidates, promising them positions as primary teachers in state-run schools.
Furthermore, the chargesheet indicates that Sinha recommended 159 ineligible candidates for teaching roles, extracting an average of Rs 8,00,000 from each.
“Further interrogation of the minister is necessary, warranting his custody,” the insider from the central agency mentioned.
Recall that West Bengal Governor, C.V. Ananda Bose, approved the ED’s chargesheet against Sinha last August.
The investigation initially identified Sinha through a diary belonging to a middleman and now suspended Trinamool Congress leader, Kuntal Ghosh, who has since been apprehended by the ED.
In March 2024, ED officials executed a search operation at Sinha's residence in Bolpur, located in Birbhum district. Following the raid, they recovered Rs 41 lakh in cash along with a mobile phone.
Sinha is recognized for his close ties to Anubrata Mondal, a prominent figure within the Trinamool Congress.
Point of View
It is crucial to report these developments with integrity. The allegations against Minister Chandranath Sinha reflect a broader issue of corruption within public offices that must be addressed. The Nation stands firm in its commitment to uncovering the truth and holding officials accountable, ensuring transparency in governance.
NationPress
03/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED to seize Sinha's assets?
The ED seized assets due to Chandranath Sinha's alleged involvement in a cash-for-school job scandal, where he is accused of collecting large sums from ineligible candidates.
How much money was allegedly collected from the candidates?
Sinha allegedly collected a total of Rs 12.75 crore from various ineligible candidates, promising them jobs as primary teachers.
What actions have been taken against Sinha so far?
Chandranath Sinha has been named in the ED's chargesheet, and his properties have been confiscated as part of the investigation.
What else was found during the raid on Sinha's residence?
During the raid, the ED officials discovered Rs 41 lakh in cash and a mobile phone at Sinha's residence.
What is the significance of this case?
This case highlights serious allegations of corruption within public job placements, underscoring the need for accountability in government positions.
