Patna: A major controversy has emerged around the Assistant Education Development Officer (AEDO) recruitment examination conducted by the Bihar Public Service Commission, with serious allegations of irregularities now under investigation. The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) has stepped up its probe, and preliminary findings indicate large-scale malpractice, the involvement of a “solver gang,” and financial transactions worth lakhs of rupees.
The examination, held between April 14 and April 21 for filling 935 posts, came under suspicion after multiple complaints of irregularities and alleged question paper leaks surfaced from various centres. As the gravity of the situation became evident, the case was handed over to the EOU for a detailed investigation.
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Arrests And Probe
According to the investigating agency, eight FIRs have been registered across five districts so far, and 38 individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. Initial findings suggest the existence of an organised network that allegedly charged candidates hefty sums in exchange for guaranteeing success in the examination. The so-called “solver gang” is believed to have played a key role by either appearing in place of candidates or assisting them through unfair means.
Investigators have identified a similar pattern of irregularities across multiple examination centres, including Munger, Nalanda, Begusarai, Sheikhpura, and Gaya. Several candidates were reportedly caught carrying electronic devices, strengthening suspicions of organised cheating aided by technology.
One of the most striking revelations from the probe is the scale of financial dealings involved. Candidates were allegedly offered deals ranging from ₹25 lakh to ₹30 lakh in exchange for assured success. These transactions were carried out through multiple channels, suggesting a well-structured system designed to manipulate the examination process.
Agency Under Scrutiny
The role of a private agency has also come under scrutiny. Investigators revealed that Sai Edu Care Private Limited was entrusted with conducting the examination, despite reportedly being blacklisted earlier by the National Testing Agency. This has raised serious questions about how such a firm was assigned responsibility for a high-stakes recruitment exam.
The EOU has sought detailed information from the BPSC regarding all officials and staff involved in the examination process. Additionally, personnel responsible for biometric attendance have also come under suspicion and are being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.
Given the seriousness of the case, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to identify the masterminds behind the racket and to uncover the full extent of the network. The SIT is also examining lapses in security arrangements at examination centres and the possible collusion that enabled such large-scale irregularities.
Preliminary findings indicate that the network may not be limited to Bihar alone, and could have links extending to other states. Investigating agencies are therefore closely examining interstate connections, digital evidence, and financial trails to establish the complete scope of the operation.
Experts believe that such irregularities in competitive examinations not only undermine the credibility of the recruitment system but also deal a severe blow to deserving candidates. The manipulation of exam processes through organised rackets erodes trust in public institutions and raises concerns about transparency and fairness.
For now, the investigation remains ongoing, with officials indicating that more revelations and arrests are likely in the coming days. Authorities are treating the case as a form of organised economic crime and are probing every angle—from digital footprints to banking transactions—to dismantle the network entirely.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
