PSC exam scandal widens: Three more tests under scanner, evidence gathered in KAS second-batch recruitment complaint

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) allegedly colluded to favour certain candidates in three more examinations, following a pattern similar to the irregularities in the Planning Board recruitment case, according to the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Candidates were allegedly awarded unusually high marks in interviews, while answers to as many as 10 questions were not evaluated in some cases.

The fresh irregularities were uncovered by the SIT headed by IG Ajeetha Begum. Three more cases are expected to be registered by Tuesday, when the Kerala High Court is scheduled to pronounce its verdict on the PSC's plea seeking dismissal of the Planning Board recruitment fraud case.

The SIT said the irregularities in the three new cases were more serious than those that had come to light so far. All three involved relatively small examinations, and the investigation team has obtained clear evidence, it said. Detailed statements have also been recorded from the complainants. The SIT said there was political interference behind the irregularities.

Candidates who had performed well in the examinations but failed to make it to the rank lists had sought details from the PSC under the Right to Information Act. The responses they received were allegedly contradictory and unsatisfactory. The SIT's investigation followed these complaints.

The investigation team has seized digital evidence relating to the three examinations and the appointments that followed, as well as information from the relevant files. PSC members who conducted the interviews are also likely to come under scrutiny.

Written marks allegedly obtained in advance

PSC rules stipulate that marks obtained in a written examination should not be published before the interview process is completed. However, PSC members allegedly obtained the written examination marks of several candidates in advance by influencing officials. According to the SIT, this enabled higher marks to be awarded to favoured candidates during the interviews, helping them secure higher positions in the rank lists.

Evidence gathered in KAS case

• The SIT has also gathered evidence in connection with a complaint alleging irregularities in the recruitment of the second batch of the Kerala Administrative Service (KAS). A case is likely to be registered in the matter as well.
• The complaint alleges political interference in question-setting, evaluation and interviews. It also alleges that candidates with lower qualifications were selected for the interview.
• A DYFI leader and a PSC member who had worked as a blood-bank technician at a medical college were among those included in the interview panel.
• A senior government official representing the government had reportedly objected when certain candidates were allegedly asked to be awarded additional marks during the interviews.

Offence may carry life imprisonment

According to the SIT, officials involved could face life imprisonment, or imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine, under Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for breach of trust. The provision also permits arrest without a warrant. As it is a non-bailable offence, bail cannot be granted at the police station.

“Extremely serious irregularities have been found in the smaller examinations. Preliminary evidence has been collected. The PSC's response is not satisfactory,” the SIT said.