PSC recruitment scam case: Chairman MR Baiju will not appear for questioning today

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: PSC Chairman Dr M.R. Baiju will not appear for questioning today in connection with the Planning Board recruitment scam. He has informed the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that he would take a decision after the High Court issues its order. He had been served a notice directing him to appear at the Crime Branch headquarters at 2.30 pm today.

It is learnt that two officials currently in judicial custody have given statements against the chairman. SIT sources said he was summoned to seek details and clarification regarding the disclosures made by the two officials.

Baiju has taken the position that he would wait for the High Court's final order on his petition seeking to quash the investigation against the PSC. If officials holding responsible positions ignore notices issued by an investigating agency, the court can issue summons and initiate another case.

The investigation team is planning to take the two officials back into custody for further questioning. If necessary, it is also planning to question the chairman along with them. IG Ajeetha Begum issued the notice, stating that the chairman's presence was essential for the investigation. The notice was served in advance to prevent him from evading questioning by citing official commitments.

The SIT had indicated that a decision on including the chairman as an accused, among other matters, would be taken soon, pointing out that he bears full responsibility for the Planning Board examination process and appointments.

PSC members have reportedly stated that the chairman selected those responsible for preparing the question papers and conducting the evaluation. Some members have also stated that the chairman had made unilateral interventions in the process. The investigating officials will take further steps only after establishing clarity on these aspects.