School-for-Jobs-Scam: TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee Appears Before ED

Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee on Thursday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and submitted reply to the agency’s inquiries regarding an ongoing investigation into an alleged school jobs scam in West Bengal, along with supporting documents which ran into nearly 6,000 pages.

Banerjee, emerging from the ED office, affirmed his transparency, expressing readiness to collaborate with the central agency in probing the alleged scam.

While Banerjee spent nearly an hour at the ED office, officials noted that he was not directly questioned during the visit. Banerjee reiterated his willingness to cooperate, stating that he would appear again if summoned and emphasized that he has nothing to conceal. Expressing support for MP Mahua Moitra, embroiled in a ‘cash-for-query’ controversy, Banerjee criticized the BJP-led NDA government, alleging harassment of those questioning the government.

The TMC’s backing of Moitra has evolved, with Banerjee’s unequivocal support indicating strong party support. Banerjee praised Moitra’s capabilities in facing the allegations. Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee is reportedly recommending Moitra’s expulsion based on “unethical conduct” impacting national security.

An ED officer clarified that Banerjee was not interrogated during his recent appearance; instead, he submitted documents for scrutiny. The agency will decide on further summons after verifying the submitted documents. Banerjee’s appearance followed his earlier non-compliance with an October 3 summons due to participation in a protest rally in New Delhi.

The ED had previously questioned Banerjee for an extensive duration on September 13 in connection with the alleged school recruitment scam. The CPI(M) characterized the ED’s summons as an “eyewash,” expressing skepticism about the investigation’s outcome. Despite concerns raised by the opposition, Banerjee’s cooperation and submission of documents are pivotal elements in the ongoing probe.