The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing alleged irregularities in Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) recruitment examinations has questioned three senior commission officials. The questioning comes amid differences between the investigating team and the commission over the submission of certified copies of documents sought by investigators. According to sources, the officials questioned include an Under Secretary, Joint Secretary and System Analyst. All three were associated with the examination wing and handled key functions such as evaluation and processing of answer sheets.
Sources familiar with the investigation said the SIT had sought certified copies of certain documents from the PSC, but the records have not yet been handed over. Investigators had earlier obtained and examined the documents, but certified copies are required if the records are to be produced as evidence before a court.
PSC challenges direction to submit documents
According to sources, the PSC has taken legal steps to challenge the SIT’s direction to provide the documents. Investigators consider the certified records important for further proceedings and for establishing documentary evidence before the court.
The officials questioned by the SIT were also asked about the functioning of the examination process, including the evaluation of answer sheets and processing of examination records. Investigators are examining whether any officials or employees played a role in the alleged irregularities.
Fresh cases may be registered this week
Based on findings emerging from the investigation, two to three fresh cases against PSC officials are likely to be registered this week, sources said. The preliminary probe has allegedly indicated possible irregularities in the conduct of other recruitment examinations as well.
The SIT had earlier detected major alleged irregularities in the recruitment examination for the post of Chief in the Industry and Infrastructure Department of the Planning Board. Following those findings, investigators expanded the scope of the probe to other recruitment examinations conducted by the commission over different years.
More than 50 exams under investigation
The SIT is currently examining more than 50 recruitment examinations conducted over the past six years. Investigators have so far received around 120 complaints relating to approximately 60 to 70 examinations held in different years.
The investigation team is matching the allegations contained in the complaints with examination records and other documents. The role of officials and employees associated with the examination wing, procedures followed in evaluating answer sheets and the preparation of examination results are also being scrutinised.
As the investigation expands, examination procedures and record management within the PSC have come under greater scrutiny. The SIT is examining documents, questioning officials and analysing complaints to determine the nature of the alleged irregularities, the stages at which they occurred and the people who may have been involved.
Investigators are also looking into whether the alleged malpractice was limited to individual examinations or formed part of a wider pattern. With additional cases potentially being registered and the probe continuing, further details about the alleged examination scam are expected to emerge in the coming days.
