Speaking at a public meeting in Midnapore on Tuesday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that had she been in Kolkata, she could have resolved the ongoing teachers’ agitation outside the School Service Commission (SSC) office "within a second."
Referring directly to the protest in Kolkata that began on Monday, Mamata expressed her concern for the agitating teachers. The Chief Minister also stated that she had been in constant contact with the protesters. “I’ve spoken to them at least ten times since yesterday,” she said.
In the wake of the Supreme Court's verdict cancelling the appointments of nearly 26,000 candidates due to recruitment irregularities, the protesters are demanding the publication of a clear and transparent list distinguishing legitimate candidates from illegitimate ones.
Addressing the core concerns of the protesters, Mamata urged them to trust the state government and the judicial process. “Some people are being rigid—demanding a list of eligible and ineligible candidates. But it’s not your job to decide who is tainted or untainted. There is a government and a court to look into these matters. We’ll collect evidence, present it in court and abide by the law. Your duty is to work and receive your salary—leave the rest to us.”
She reiterated that the Supreme Court had stayed their appointments, but emphasised that her government had already filed a review petition. “We’ve requested the court to allow the payment of salaries. We are consulting top legal experts and are prepared to file another review if needed.”
In a strong message to the protesters, Mamata said, “Why sit in this sweltering heat? Go back to school. Don’t let anyone provoke you. The government that gave you jobs will ensure justice—not those who only criticise and incite unrest.”
The Bengal Chief Minister also called for compassion and responsibility, stressing the human impact of the situation.
“We don’t want to increase unemployment in Bengal. When it comes to politics, we need a human face—not a demonic one. Some people who have taken jobs don’t even think about their families. But remember, it’s the government that will pay your salaries—not those trying to create chaos.”
Her comments come at a time when the state is under pressure to address the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s ruling, which highlighted procedural lapses in the SSC recruitment and triggered widespread protests among the affected candidates.
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