High written scores, low interview marks: Kerala PSC candidates allege systemic foul play

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid ongoing controversies surrounding irregularities in the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) examinations, fresh allegations have surfaced regarding the interviews conducted in 2019 and 2022 for premier positions within the State Planning Board. Candidates have alleged widespread manipulation of interview marks to favour specific individuals, effectively sidelining those who had topped the written examinations for key posts, including Chief of Social Services, Plan Co-ordination Division Chief, and Evaluation Division Chief.

According to complaints raised by candidates regarding the 2022 recruitment for the post of Evaluation Division Chief, disproportionately high marks were awarded during the interview stage to ensure preferred candidates secured top ranks. The candidate who scored the highest in the written examination with 79.50 marks was reportedly relegated to the fourth position after being awarded just 15 marks in the interview. Conversely, another candidate who had obtained 76.25 marks in the written examination was given 28 marks in the interview, elevating them from the fourth position to the first rank on the final list.

Similar discrepancies have been alleged in the 2019 recruitment process for the Chief of Social Services and Plan Co-ordination Division. Candidates claim that a left-wing leader was awarded interview marks equivalent to 72 percent of their written examination score, enabling them to bypass higher-scoring candidates, secure the top rank, and subsequently obtain the appointment. Two other individuals, identified as members of the Kerala Government Officers' Association (KGOA), were also allegedly granted higher marks. Furthermore, candidates complained that the PSC denied their requests for copies of the answer sheets.

As investigations into these recruitment allegations continue, a social media post by PSC member Saif Chakkuvally has sparked widespread discussion. Sharing an image of the cover of the Constitution of India, Saif Chakkuvally wrote that the eternal truth, which stands as the ultimate refuge for the destitute, the displaced, and the helpless, must prevail. He added that this remains the earnest hope of his humble and weak self.