Was Trinamool MLA Jiban Krishna Saha Sent to Judicial Custody in SSC Recruitment Scam?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal development, Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha has been remanded into custody by the PMLA court amid allegations linked to the SSC recruitment scam. This situation raises questions about political accountability and the ongoing investigation's implications for the party.
Key Takeaways
- Jiban Krishna Saha is under judicial custody for 12 days.
- He was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate linked to the SSC recruitment scam.
- Attempts to escape during arrest were made, but unsuccessful.
- Allegations suggest significant financial irregularities in his bank accounts.
- This case could have broader implications for the Trinamool Congress.
Kolkata, Aug 30 (NationPress) Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha was ordered into judicial custody for 12 days by the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court on Saturday, according to officials.
The MLA was apprehended by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on August 25 in relation to the School Service Commission (SSC) recruitment scandal. He appeared in court after completing a six-day remand.
Reports indicate that Saha was visibly emotional in court upon seeing his wife and son.
His attorney, Zakir Hussain, stated that the MLA had complied with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) during his previous custody.
The lawyer requested Saha's release, while the ED submitted a petition for his continued custody.
Documents related to the investigation are expected to be presented in court shortly.
The defense attorney argued there may be larger figures involved in the case, suggesting there are minimal allegations against his client, whom he referred to as a 'third line agent.'
He also noted that the 'real' culprits have been granted bail.
After considering both sides, the PMLA court remanded Saha to custody until September 12.
The MLA was taken into custody from his residence in Burwan, located in Murshidabad district of West Bengal.
During the arrest, Saha attempted to escape by climbing a boundary wall and discarded one of his mobile phones into a bush, but he was apprehended before he could flee, and the phone was recovered.
His arrest followed his inability to satisfactorily respond to inquiries about large sums of money found in his relatives' bank accounts.
Previously, in April 2023, the CBI had arrested Saha in the same investigation, but he was subsequently granted bail by the Supreme Court after 13 months.
Sources indicate that the ED has asserted in court that funds from the scam were deposited into Saha's bank account in multiple installments.
From 2019 to 2021, a total of Rs 50 lakh was reportedly deposited into the accounts belonging to Saha and his wife.
The central agency has identified eight bank accounts linked to Saha, from which significant transactions occurred.
ED officials revealed that transactions totaling Rs 46 lakh have been traced, with Rs 26 lakh transferred to his wife Tagori Saha's account and Rs 20 lakh sent to his father's account.
It is noted that Saha's wife is a teacher.
On Thursday, the ED interrogated Saha's aunt, Maya Saha, a Trinamool Congress Councillor, regarding the investigation, although she denied any involvement in the SSC recruitment scandal.
The ED's investigation originated from an FIR filed by the CBI, following orders from the Calcutta High Court, concerning alleged irregularities in the recruitment processes for Group C and D staff, assistant teachers for classes 9 to 12, and primary teachers.
The central agency has filed four charge sheets to date and has apprehended numerous key individuals, including former State Education Minister Partha Chatterjee, his alleged associate Arpita Mukherjee, and former Trinamool Congress MLA Manik Bhattacharya.
Point of View
It’s crucial to approach this unfolding situation with integrity. The allegations against MLA Jiban Krishna Saha highlight the serious issues of corruption and accountability within political realms. While legal proceedings take their course, it’s essential to focus on transparency and justice, ensuring the public remains informed and engaged.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to Jiban Krishna Saha's arrest?
Jiban Krishna Saha was arrested in connection with the SSC recruitment scam, which involves allegations of financial irregularities linked to the recruitment of school staff.
How long will Saha remain in custody?
The PMLA court has ordered him to remain in custody until September 12.
What were the circumstances of his arrest?
Saha attempted to flee during his arrest by scaling a wall and discarding a mobile phone, but was apprehended by ED officials.
Has Saha cooperated with the investigation?
Yes, his lawyer stated that he has cooperated with the CBI during their investigation.
What are the implications of this case for the Trinamool Congress?
This case raises questions about accountability and corruption within the Trinamool Congress, potentially impacting its reputation and political standing.
