SSC scam: Court frames charges against Bhadra, Partha
Times of India | 7 January 2025
Kolkata: A city court on Monday framed charges in the cash-for-job case after accused Sujay Krishna Bhadra appeared virtually. The proceedings were earlier delayed as Bhadra was on ventilation after being hospitalised on Dec 31, 2024.
Charges were also framed against former state education minister Partha Chatterjee, Trinamool MLA Manik Bhattacharya, promoter Ayan Sil, expelled Trinamool functionary Shantanu Banerjee and Partha's associate Santu Gangopadhyay.
During the hearing, the judge asked Bhadra, "How are you? Are you conscious? Do you understand?" Bhadra replied, "I don't understand, sir." The judge clarified, "I am the judge you saw in court. Do you recognise me now?" Bhadra responded, "Yes, sir." The judge then read out the charges, "The charges are being framed against you under section 4 of the PMLA." Bhadra said, "I am completely innocent, sir."
Tensions rose in the courtroom during the framing of charges against Bhattacharya. When asked whether he was guilty, Bhattacharya stated that he had filed a plea for discharge from the case but had not yet received an order on the matter. He questioned the legitimacy of framing charges while his application was pending. The judge responded, "I am writing that you pleaded not guilty," and instructed Bhattacharya to remain quiet. Bhattacharya claimed he was innocent.