CID Searches IAS Officer's Jayamahal Home in KPSC Exam Scam Probe

The Criminal Investigation Department searched the residence of IAS officer Jnanendra Gangwar near Jayamahal in Bengaluru on Wednesday as part of an expanding probe into suspected irregularities and question-paper leaks in the Karnataka Public Service Commission’s recruitment examination for veterinary officers.

The recruitment process came under CID scrutiny after at least seven selected candidates, who had previously failed their veterinary science degree examinations two or three times, emerged as top scorers. Several candidates who struggled academically scored between 411.75 and 468.75 marks in the recruitment test after clearing degree subjects through supplementary exams. In contrast, gold medallists and candidates who took Union Public Service Commission examinations struggled to cross 350 marks in the demanding test.

Following the search at Gangwar's Jayamahal home, CID officials transported the IAS officer to the KPSC office to conduct a mahazar, identifying the premises as a key location in the suspected recruitment malpractice. Investigators are reviewing his alleged role in the examination and paper leak, while also verifying claims that intermediaries promised political protection and spoke about contesting elections from Bhalki.

In a coordinated search on Wednesday, a CID team led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Aslam Jata raided the Om Lakshmi Souharda Sahakari Sangha Niyamita Bank in Bhalki, located in Bidar district. Officials seized a secret diary containing references to alleged financial transactions running into crores of rupees, alongside mentions of political functionaries in Bidar and adjacent districts.

Investigators are also looking into whether individuals connected to earlier KPSC recruitment irregularities between 2010 and 2013 were involved in the current case. Sources noted that the CID is preparing to invoke the Prevention of Corruption Act against implicated government officials, with an FIR for corruption and cheating expected once evidence is evaluated.

Separately, the Governor’s office approached the Karnataka High Court’s division bench to challenge an earlier order setting aside the suspension of KPSC chairman Shivashankar Sahukar over allegations of nepotism and power abuse. The state government argued that the Chief Minister approved Sahukar's suspension on July 16 and the Cabinet granted post-facto approval on July 19. A division bench headed by the Chief Justice issued notices to Sahukar and the KPSC on Wednesday before adjourning the proceedings.