In a significant development in the ongoing municipal recruitment corruption probe, former Food Minister Rathin Ghosh appeared at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) office at the CGO Complex on Friday morning, after previously evading five summons issued by the central agency.
According to sources, Ghosh arrived at the CGO Complex around 10:15 am without prior intimation to the ED. His sudden and unannounced appearance has sparked considerable interest within political circles, especially in light of his earlier repeated absence from questioning.
The ED had issued multiple notices to Ghosh in connection with alleged irregularities in municipal recruitment during his tenure as Chairman of the Madhyamgram Municipality in North 24 Parganas. On earlier occasions, he cited various reasons to avoid appearing before investigators. Initially, he claimed to be occupied with duties related to the Assembly elections. Following the elections, he reportedly informed the agency of a severe leg injury sustained from a fall in his bathroom, stating that he was under medical advice for bed rest.
Investigators are now seeking to question Ghosh regarding alleged discrepancies in recruitment processes, including the manner in which appointments were made, the possible exchange of bribes, and the extent of any organised network behind the alleged irregularities. ED sources indicate that scrutiny of documents and statements from his tenure has revealed several inconsistencies that require further clarification.
Ghosh’s appearance comes shortly after the arrest of another former TMC minister Sujit Bose on May 11. Bose was taken into custody by the ED following a prolonged interrogation session in the same case. Officials cited inconsistencies in his statements and lack of cooperation as grounds for his arrest.
The agency had earlier conducted extensive searches at Bose’s residence as part of the investigation into alleged recruitment irregularities during his tenure at the South Dum Dum Municipality. ED officials claim to have gathered substantial documentary evidence linking him to the case.
With Ghosh now appearing before investigators, the probe into the municipal recruitment scam appears to be entering a crucial phase, with further developments expected in the coming days.
Also read: Kolkata police DCP arrested by ED after 11-hour interrogation
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