Why Did Trinamool Minister Chandranath Sinha Skip ED Summons?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, West Bengal Minister Chandranath Sinha dodged ED questioning in a major cash-for-school job scandal. With previous ties to criminal investigations, what does this mean for him and the Trinamool Congress?
Key Takeaways
- Chandranath Sinha did not appear for his ED summons.
- The cash-for-school job scandal is under investigation.
- ED has previously seized cash from Sinha's residence.
- Sinha is linked to suspended leader Kuntal Ghosh.
- This case reflects ongoing corruption inquiries in West Bengal.
Kolkata, July 31 (NationPress) West Bengal minister and Trinamool Congress legislator from the Bolpur constituency, Chandranath Sinha, failed to appear before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday for questioning regarding the multi-crore cash-for-school job case. The minister, responsible for the micro, small, and medium enterprises & textiles department, was expected to attend the ED's office in the CGO Complex at Salt Lake, Kolkata by 11 a.m. Instead, he was seen at his residence in Bolpur.
On Monday, the ED had issued a notice for Sinha to appear for questioning regarding the job scam, instructing him to bring along details of his bank accounts and property. However, he did not address the media concerning the ED's notice. This marked the second summons for Sinha in the school-job case, as he had previously appeared for questioning in September of last year.
Reportedly, he requested additional time from the ED for his appearance. Sources indicate he informed ED officials that, although he could not attend the interrogation on Thursday, he is currently compiling the necessary documents and intends to appear shortly.
The minister's name surfaced from the diary of the middleman and now-suspended Trinamool Congress leader Kuntal Ghosh, who has since been arrested by the agency. In March of last year, the ED conducted searches at Sinha's residence in Bolpur, seizing cash amounting to Rs 41 lakh and a mobile phone.
Sinha is known for his close ties to Trinamool Congress heavyweight and former district president in Birbhum, Anubrata Mondal. Additionally, he was summoned by the ED regarding a separate multi-crore cattle-smuggling case in March of last year.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this incident with a balanced lens. The failure of a public official to comply with investigative protocols raises serious questions about accountability in governance. The ongoing scrutiny of politicians involved in corruption is essential for public trust, and such cases must be pursued diligently.
NationPress
01/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Chandranath Sinha miss the ED summons?
Chandranath Sinha reportedly requested additional time to prepare necessary documents and did not attend the ED's office as scheduled.
What is the cash-for-school job case?
The cash-for-school job case involves allegations of corruption and financial misconduct related to job placements in schools.
What actions have been taken by the ED?
The ED has conducted raids and searches, seizing evidence including cash from Sinha's residence.
Who is Kuntal Ghosh?
Kuntal Ghosh is a suspended Trinamool Congress leader whose diary led to the investigation of Sinha.
Has Sinha been previously questioned by the ED?
Yes, Sinha faced questioning by the ED in September of last year regarding the same case.
