KPSC Vet Recruitment Scam: CID Conducts Second Search, Summons 329 Candidates

Bengaluru, August 25: The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Tuesday conducted a second search at the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) office in Bengaluru as part of its ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the recruitment examination for veterinary officers. The search was led by Superintendent of Police Raghavendra Hegde, who examined recruitment-related documents and other records.

The CID has also issued notices to all 329 candidates who appeared for the examination, directing them to appear before investigating officers for questioning. This marks a significant escalation in the probe, which has already seen the seizure of 658 OMR carbon sheets from the candidates. These sheets have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for comparison with the original OMR sheets to detect any discrepancies or evidence of manipulation.

The intensified investigation follows information and statements reportedly obtained by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) during its separate probe into the alleged recruitment irregularities. The ED had earlier conducted searches at more than 21 locations in connection with the case, including the residence of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar, who was entrusted with overseeing the examination. The search at the IAS officer’s residence was carried out in his absence, and a notice was pasted on the door directing him to appear for questioning.

The CID is now examining the material gathered by the ED and the statements recorded during its investigation to establish the extent of the alleged malpractice and identify those involved in the recruitment process. Officials said the probe is focused on determining whether there was a coordinated effort to manipulate the examination results and whether any public servants were complicit.

The veterinary officer recruitment examination was conducted by the KPSC earlier this year, and allegations of irregularities surfaced soon after the results were announced. Complaints pointed to discrepancies in the evaluation process and possible leak of question papers, prompting the state government to order a CID probe.

Sources said the CID is also verifying the educational credentials and identity of the candidates who appeared for the exam, as well as cross-checking the OMR sheets for any signs of tampering. The forensic analysis is expected to provide crucial evidence in the case.

This is the second time the CID has searched the KPSC office in connection with the same case. The first search was conducted earlier this month, during which several documents and digital records were seized. The agency has also been questioning KPSC officials and staff members to understand the procedural lapses that may have allowed the alleged irregularities to take place.

The case has raised questions about the transparency and integrity of recruitment processes conducted by the KPSC, which handles appointments to various state government departments. The state government has assured the public that strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty, and has reiterated its commitment to ensuring fair and merit-based selections.

Meanwhile, the ED’s involvement indicates that the case may also involve financial irregularities and money laundering, as the agency investigates the flow of funds related to the alleged malpractice. The ED’s searches across multiple locations earlier this year were part of a broader investigation into the recruitment scandal.

The CID has urged the public to cooperate with the investigation and refrain from speculating on the matter. Further developments are expected as the investigation progresses.