ED seizes ₹163 crore in SSC recruitment scandal; over ₹544 crore total seized so far

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has seized assets valued at ₹163 crore in the ongoing investigation into the School Service Commission (SSC) recruitment scandal. This seizure contributes to the total amount of assets confiscated, which now stands at ₹544.8 crore. The ED's investigation has uncovered a vast network of corruption involving numerous individuals connected to the SSC recruitment process in West Bengal.

In 2022, the ED recovered a substantial sum of cash, approximately ₹52 crore, from the residence of Arpita Mukherjee, who is the girlfriend of former education minister Partha Chatterjee. The ED's investigation into this matter led to a broader examination of recruitment practices in the state, focusing on allegations of bribery and malpractice associated with hiring processes for various educational positions.

The seized assets primarily belong to Prasanna Ray, who is one of the main accused in the SSC corruption case. These properties include hotels, resorts, and various immovable assets linked to Ray and his wife. The ED has indicated that these assets were obtained through illicit means, with the proceeds directly connected to the fraudulent practices uncovered during the recruitment examinations.

The ED's inquiry revealed that Prasanna Ray acted as a key intermediary within the corruption network. According to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) chargesheet, individuals seeking employment through the SSC were required to pay substantial bribes to Ray, who would then transfer these funds to influential figures orchestrating the recruitment scam. This systematic corruption has highlighted vulnerabilities in the recruitment process, which is supposed to be merit-based.

In addition to the monetary seizure, the investigation has resulted in the arrests of several individuals, including high-profile figures associated with the scandal. Prasanna Ray was initially arrested in connection with these charges but was granted bail shortly afterward. However, he has been re-arrested this year as the investigation intensifies. Authorities are now examining additional leads to uncover further illicit financial transactions linked to the recruitment process.