'Can't accept verdict, but will abide by it': Mamata on Supreme Court ruling on school appointments

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday expressed her strong reservations about the Supreme Court's verdict that nullified the appointments of thousands of school teachers and staff. However, she reiterated her commitment to complying with the ruling.

The apex court’s decision has affected 25,753 teachers and other employees in state-run and state-aided schools.

"While I have the highest respect for the judiciary and judges, I cannot accept the judgement from a humanitarian point of view," Banerjee stated during a press conference.

She, however, assured that her government would follow the Supreme Court’s directive while considering all possible legal avenues.

"We have to accept the judgment and do whatever is legally possible," she said.

Referring to the case involving former Education minister Partha Chatterjee, who is currently in jail, Banerjee questioned the selective action against political figures.

"How many BJP leaders were arrested in the Vyapam case?" she asked, further alleging that the ruling party at the Centre was attempting to destabilise West Bengal's education system.

"Does the BJP want to ensure the collapse of West Bengal's education system?" she questioned.

Banerjee also announced plans to meet those who lost their jobs due to the verdict.

"I will tell them not to lose hope," she assured.

PTI