Jharkhand CID arrests ex-JPSC chief over recruitment exam irregularities

The Jharkhand Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Monday (August 10, 2026) arrested L. Khiangte, former chairperson of the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), in connection with alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the commission. The arrest is the latest in a widening investigation that has so far seen 20 people taken into custody.

Additional Director General (CID) Manoj Kaushik confirmed the development, telling press trust of India, “We have arrested former JPSC chairperson L. Khiangte in connection with irregularities in recruitment examinations.”

Mr. Khiangte, who served as the state’s chief secretary before retiring, was appointed JPSC chairperson in February 2025. He tendered his resignation on July 22, 2026, saying he wanted to ensure an impartial investigation into the matter. The CID had questioned him four times since July 28.

The arrest came a day after all three sitting members of the JPSC resigned amid sustained protests by job aspirants who have alleged irregularities in the commission’s recruitment tests. These allegations have raised questions about the fairness and transparency of examinations for state government posts.

According to the CID, Mr. Khiangte resigned a day before the agency conducted searches at multiple locations, including his official residence. The searches were part of the ongoing probe into the alleged irregularities, which has been a focus of public concern in the state.

The protests by aspirants have been widespread, with candidates demanding a fresh and credible recruitment process. The resignations of the three commission members were seen as a response to these demands, and the state government has indicated that it will take steps to restore integrity in the selection process.

Mr. Khiangte, in a statement around the time of his resignation, said he had “voluntarily chosen to resign” to facilitate an independent inquiry. He has not commented publicly since his arrest. As with any legal case, he is presumed innocent until proven otherwise.

The JPSC is responsible for conducting recruitment examinations for various state government services. Fair and transparent functioning of such commissions is essential to ensure equal opportunity in public employment. The CID’s investigation, now involving 20 arrests, underscores the seriousness with which the allegations are being examined.

The case has also highlighted the need for stronger oversight of recruitment processes in public institutions. As the investigation continues, the state administration faces the dual challenge of ensuring due process and rebuilding public confidence in the recruitment system, which is vital for thousands of young aspirants across Jharkhand.