NIN365 Desk, Kolkata : The investigation into nepotism in the recruitment process has revealed a pattern of securing jobs through the submission of blank documents and allegations of corruption. The scrutiny extends to the central organization, as well as municipal bodies, with claims of a consistent modus operandi involving “white envelopes” facilitating job transactions.
The total number of sanctioned permanent employees in Kolkata Municipal Corporation is reported to be 46,421, but the current workforce stands at only 16,673, leaving a staggering vacancy of 29,748 positions. Additionally, there are 6 municipalities and 123 municipal bodies across the state, with a combined approved staff of 79,397, yet the actual employed workforce is only 39,093. This reveals a substantial deficit in employed personnel, especially in temporary positions.
Before the 2018-19 fiscal year, municipal corporations, excluding Kolkata, operated independently without being under the jurisdiction of the State Municipal Service Commission. However, since then, all municipal corporations and bodies fall under the West Bengal Municipal Service Commission. This centralization has altered the dynamics of the recruitment process.
Allegations of irregularities extend to the tendering process for hiring agencies. These agencies, not under the commission’s jurisdiction, were responsible for recruiting permanent employees in municipal bodies. The tendering process, too, has come under scrutiny, with accusations of bid rigging and manipulation. The minimum requirement of three participating entities in the tendering process has allegedly been circumvented, allowing a single agency to monopolize recruitment efforts.
The financial dealings between agencies and municipalities also raise concerns. The fees paid to agencies for sending candidates for examinations vary across regions. Kolkata Municipal Corporation reportedly pays between 75-80 rupees per candidate, while other municipalities pay significantly less. However, the actual financial transactions involved in these recruitments are suspected to be much higher than the quoted rates.
Further allegations suggest that agencies conducting recruitment exams received substantial amounts ranging from 4 to 7 lakhs for facilitating job placements. This financial exchange allegedly extends to political figures, with claims that 30-35% of the money goes into the pockets of politicians.
The controversy deepens with claims that despite submitting blank answer sheets during exams, candidates associated with influential figures secure positions based on their political connections rather than merit. Some instances highlight individuals obtaining jobs through agencies, holding positions for five to seven years without facing any recruitment scrutiny.
In essence, the investigation unfolds a complex web of corruption, nepotism, and financial irregularities in the recruitment process of municipal bodies in West Bengal. The modus operandi involves exploiting loopholes, collusion between agencies and politicians, and a lack of transparency in the hiring process, ultimately compromising the integrity of public service appointments.
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