ED Raids KPSC Office in Karnataka Veterinary Officers Scam

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a sweeping operation on Tuesday, raiding the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) offices as part of an ongoing investigation into a recruitment scam involving veterinary officers. The investigations target suspended KPSC Chairman Shivashankarappa S Sahukar, member Shanta Hosmani, and several other individuals implicated in the alleged irregularities.

Approximately 21 locations in Karnataka and Gujarat faced scrutiny during this extensive operation. The ED confirmed their investigation encompasses various premises, including the KPSC office in Bengaluru, Sahukar’s residence, Hosmani’s office, and the headquarters of Edutest Solutions, a company involved in the digital evaluation of the recruitment exams.

The agency initiated this action after registering a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), responding to claims about corrupt practices surrounding the hiring of veterinary officers. Officials noted that searches are being conducted in major cities across Karnataka, such as Bengaluru, Hassan, Chitradurga, Davangere, and more, along with locations in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.

Officials revealed that the probe stemmed from four FIRs filed by the Bengaluru Police at the Vidhan Soudha police station. These FIRs outline serious allegations of irregularities in selecting candidates for veterinary officer positions. Reports indicate that intermediaries purportedly contacted candidates demanding illegal monetary compensation ranging from Rs 70 to Rs 80 lakh for securing their selection.

The case took a turn when the complainant provided police with audio recordings, purportedly capturing conversations with these middlemen. Such evidence has intensified scrutiny on how jobs were allocated and the means through which some candidates achieved selection.

As the ED continues to investigate, they are also examining claims related to document tampering, including potential leaks of exam papers and alterations to OMR answer sheets. Moreover, the agency is probing allegations that relatives of KPSC officials received undue favoritism in the final selection process.

The ED’s investigation highlights critical concerns regarding transparency and integrity in public services recruitment processes. With the prospect of substantial penalties, this case has not only triggered major law enforcement action but also raised public awareness about corruption in government hiring.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the ED expressed the agency’s commitment to rigorously pursuing any individuals involved in corrupt practices that undermine public trust in recruitment processes. They emphasized that this inquiry aims to uphold the principle of fairness in civil service selections.

As developments unfold, the implications of this investigation on public service recruitment in Karnataka remain significant. Residents and candidates eagerly await updates as the ED continues its pursuit of justice in this high-profile case.