Bengal school jobs scam: CBI records Sujay Bhadra’s voice sample

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 12, 2025, Kolkata : Sujay Krishna Bhadra, also known as 'Kalighat Ke Kaku,' has finally provided his voice sample in connection with the ongoing Bengal primary recruitment corruption case. After multiple missed opportunities, Bhadra appeared before the court on February 12 following a directive from the Calcutta High Court, allowing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to collect the crucial sample. The procedure was carried out in the judge's presence, and now the CBI will compare the sample with the evidence gathered during their investigation.

The saga of delays began on January 21, when CBI officials first attempted to collect Bhadra’s voice sample. However, he failed to appear in court physically. The authorities set a second date for January 28, but once again, Bhadra’s absence resulted in the failure of the procedure. A third attempt was made on February 5, but Bhadra did not show up again. Finally, on February 12, Bhadra appeared in court, and the CBI successfully recorded his voice sample.

The CBI is investigating the multi-crore scam related to irregularities in the hiring of teachers and non-teaching staff through the state’s School Service Commission (SSC). Officials believe that Bhadra’s voice sample could provide critical evidence for the case, as it will be compared to recorded communications. Insiders revealed that the sample will be sent to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) for examination, after which it will be cross-checked with a mobile conversation where Bhadra was reportedly heard discussing relevant matters.

Before this, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had also sought Bhadra’s voice sample as part of their probe into the money trail of the alleged scam. Despite being granted bail in the ED-related case in December, Bhadra remained in judicial custody after being arrested by the CBI for his role in the recruitment scandal. In connection with the ED’s investigation, a trial process has already started at a special court in Kolkata under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), with 53 accused individuals and entities, including 29 individuals and 24 corporate entities or trusts.

With Bhadra’s voice sample now in the hands of the CBI, further forensic analysis is expected to bring new developments in the ongoing investigation. The case, which has already resulted in several high-profile arrests, continues to draw attention as authorities examine financial transactions and alleged bribe exchanges linked to the scandal.