The West Bengal mass education extension and library services department will conduct a thorough investigation into alleged irregularities in book procurement for government-run and school libraries during the Trinamool regime. Complaints of corruption in book purchases, involving books by close associates of Trinamool Congress leaders or favored publishers, have prompted this action. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has directed the department to launch a detailed probe following numerous complaints received.
The Chief Minister has highlighted concerns about the poor quality of books purchased by state-run libraries and schools, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive investigation. The mass education extension and library services minister, Gouri Shankar Ghosh, has been instructed to address these complaints and ensure transparency in the procurement process. Additionally, there are plans to involve a judicial commission, led by former Calcutta High Court Judge, Justice Biswajit Basu (retired), for a more in-depth inquiry.
Apart from allegations of corruption in book procurement, there are suspicions of recurring purchases of books from favored writers and publishers without a proper selection process. The department has acknowledged these lapses and is committed to examining all aspects of the issue. Chief Minister Adhikari has publicly criticized the previous administration for widespread corruption, vowing to address these issues and restore integrity in governance.
