In a decisive move, the Election Commission of India has turned its attention to serious allegations rocking West Bengal’s recruitment process. Complaints have surfaced accusing authorities of appointing staff at IPAC centers—ostensibly for data entry roles—through backdoor channels under the controversial ‘Bengal SIR’ scheme. This development has sparked outrage among job aspirants who claim the process was rigged from the start.
The grievances center around the State Innovation and Research (SIR) initiative, where hundreds of data entry operator positions were advertised. Whistleblowers allege that unqualified individuals, often with political connections, were fast-tracked into these jobs, bypassing merit-based selection. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes at IPAC (Integrated Personnel and Administrative Centre) facilities, with claims of cash-for-jobs and favoritism rampant.
Election Commission officials confirmed they are investigating multiple petitions filed by affected candidates. ‘We take such matters with utmost seriousness, especially when they undermine public trust in government processes,’ a senior EC spokesperson stated. Preliminary probes have uncovered discrepancies in appointment records, prompting demands for a full audit.
This isn’t the first controversy surrounding Bengal’s recruitment drives. Previous scandals involving teacher hires and clerk positions have already dented the government’s image. With state elections looming, the timing couldn’t be worse for the ruling dispensation. Opposition parties are seizing the moment, calling for immediate suspension of the SIR scheme and prosecution of those involved.
As the EC steps up scrutiny, thousands of unemployed youth await justice. Will this lead to systemic reforms in Bengal’s job allocation mechanisms? Only time will tell, but the commission’s firm stance signals zero tolerance for corruption in public hiring.