Kerala PSC Exam Irregularities: SIT Begins In-Depth Probe into Complaints
The special investigation team (SIT) constituted by the Kerala government to probe alleged irregularities in the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) examinations has intensified its investigation. The team, led by the Crime Branch, will record detailed statements from complainants to determine which allegations warrant criminal cases.
Official sources said the SIT has received over 10 complaints so far. Decisions on registering First Information Reports (FIR) will be made after an initial assessment of the evidence. The investigation follows mounting allegations of examination malpractice, procedural violations, and irregularities that are suspected to have affected multiple PSC examinations.
Complaints by candidates citing discrepancies in examinations, evaluation procedures, and rank lists prompted the government to order a comprehensive probe through the SIT, headed by S. Ajeetha Begum, Inspector General of Police, Economic Offences Wing.
According to officials, the SIT has begun collecting preliminary information from several complainants. Candidates have submitted documents and other materials that they claim substantiate allegations of large-scale irregularities.
The SIT's immediate focus is on identifying complaints that disclose prima facie evidence of offences. Officials indicated that FIRs will be registered only after detailed scrutiny of complaints.
As part of the investigation, the Crime Branch is expected to seek official records from the PSC relating to the examinations. The examinations likely to come under detailed scrutiny include those conducted for the State Planning Board. Investigators will collect procedural records, examination-related documents, and other relevant files.
The PSC will be formally directed to preserve all examination-related records and refrain from destroying any documents that may be relevant to the investigation. The SIT could also record the statements of PSC officials associated with the conduct of the examinations.
The Crime Branch aims to submit a preliminary investigation report to the State Police Chief by the end of the month. The Home department will subsequently decide on the future course of action in the cases.
