ED Searches IAS Officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar's Bengaluru Home in KPSC Probe

Directorate of Enforcement (ED) officials on Sunday, August 23, 2026, arrived at the Bengaluru residence of IAS officer and MSME Director Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar in connection with an ongoing investigation into alleged recruitment irregularities in the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC).

An ED team accompanied by Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel reached Mr. Gangwar’s apartment in three vehicles. Security personnel at the apartment complex initially locked the main gate and informed the officials that they had instructions not to allow anyone inside. The ED team reportedly spent nearly two hours at the premises attempting to gain access.

Upon reaching the apartment, officials found the residence locked, while Mr. Gangwar was not present and his phone was reportedly switched off. The ED team subsequently summoned a locksmith to the premises to prepare a duplicate key to unlock the door. The officials also arranged for a neighbour to be present as an independent witness while the apartment was being opened.

Mr. Gangwar previously served as the Controller of Examinations at the KPSC when the veterinary officer recruitment examination was held. The recruitment process came under federal scrutiny following allegations of large-scale malpractices, with officials investigating claims that candidates were asked to pay between ₹70 lakh and ₹80 lakh to secure appointments.

The search comes amid wider enforcement action related to the case. The ED had earlier carried out searches at multiple locations, including premises linked to veterinary officers and the residence of former KPSC chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar. While Mr. Gangwar’s administrative role has brought him under ED scrutiny, officials noted that there is no confirmed information establishing that he has been accused of accepting bribes or participating in the alleged scam.

The agency's action took place a day after Mr. Gangwar was traced to his hometown in Uttar Pradesh after being out of contact for nearly two days. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge stated that the officer had travelled there to attend to a family emergency involving his ailing father.