A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal after Diganta Bagchi, a sitting Member of the West Bengal Public Service Commission (WBPSC), was seen attending a political programme for a Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate in Bhabanipur on Saturday, 25th April. His presence at the rally has triggered sharp reactions, with questions being raised over the neutrality of constitutional postholders during the election period.
Suvendu Adhikari calls it an MCC violation
Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari strongly criticised the development and termed it a clear violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). Taking to X, he shared a detailed post questioning the role of public officials in political events.
In his post, Adhikari wrote, “The ‘Compromised Bureaucracy’ of Mamata Banerjee reaches a new low. Is there any Constitutional Propriety left in West Bengal, or not? The visual evidence is clear: Diganta Bagchi, a sitting Member of the West Bengal Public Service Commission (WBPSC), was seen yesterday sharing the stage at a political program for the TMC candidate in Bhabanipur.”
SHAMEFUL !
— Suvendu Adhikari (@SuvenduWB) April 26, 2026
The 'Compromised Bureaucracy' of Mamata Banerjee reaches a new low.
Is there any Constitutional Propriety left in West Bengal, or not? The visual evidence is clear, Diganta Bagchi, a sitting Member of the West Bengal Public Service Commission (WBPSC), was seen… pic.twitter.com/gQQ4oKCmgj
He further said, “The WBPSC is a Constitutional body tasked with the impartial recruitment of the State’s future Officers. How can the youth of Bengal expect fairness when the very people who are supposed to be ‘Hon’ble Members’ of the Commission are seen acting as ‘Hon’ble Cadres’ of the ruling party?”
Calling it a serious breach, he added, “This is a BLATANT VIOLATION of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), as no official postholder should endorse a political party during the election process. Neutrality is the bedrock of public service; by participating in a political rally, Mr Bagchi has compromised the integrity of his Office.”
Adhikari also urged authorities to take action, stating, “I strongly urge the Hon’ble Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal, and the Chief Secretary of West Bengal to take cognisance of the incident and take exemplary action against him.”
The appointment that sparked debate
Diganta Bagchi’s appointment to the WBPSC had earlier sparked controversy as well. The commission, which plays a key role in recruiting civil servants in the state, saw a new panel being formed, with retired IFS officer Debal Roy appointed as chairperson and Bagchi among the new members.
Bagchi, who was an actor and worked in the Bengali entertainment industry for over two decades, faced criticism over his inclusion. Many on social media and even former bureaucrats questioned his qualifications for a role that involves selecting candidates for government jobs.
His proximity to the ruling TMC and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also became a talking point.
Responding to the criticism earlier, Bagchi had said, “I do not follow social media closely, so I am not aware of what is being said. This is an honorary position, and many others have filled it before. There is nothing more to it.”
