CID widens KPSC scam net, quizzes candidates who allegedly paid for posts
CID expands KPSC veterinary recruitment scam probe to alleged beneficiaries; several candidates confess to paying for selection.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has broadened its inquiry into the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) veterinary officers' recruitment scam, now focusing on candidates who allegedly secured positions through fraudulent means. Investigators have recorded statements from several such aspirants, with some reportedly admitting to paying for examination malpractice. A few of these individuals have also expressed willingness to turn witnesses in the case, according to sources, though CID officials have declined to comment on the developments.
In a parallel track, the CID has intensified interrogation of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar, the former Controller of Examinations at KPSC, and alleged middleman Basavaraj Kannale. Both are in CID custody in connection with the case.
During questioning, Mr. Gangwar is said to have told investigators that he played no direct role in the scam, asserting that the alleged middleman handled the entire operation. He reportedly claimed he never communicated directly with any candidate and was not involved in negotiating financial transactions. He also denied personally extracting the printed question paper from the system, but admitted that the pre-prepared series of questions was later used to print the final paper after receiving necessary instructions and approval.
Mr. Gangwar reportedly conceded before the CID that the question paper was printed only after he gave his consent, a statement that raises further questions about his actual involvement. Investigators are now expected to confront him with statements and evidence gathered against Kannale and other suspects to establish the chain of communication and responsibility in the leak.
Earlier, CID officials raided Kannale's residence and recovered documents related to the scam, which are being verified. The agency also suspects Kannale's involvement in other recruitment examinations, a matter that will be probed at a later stage.