Raipur: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducted raids at 15 locations across Chhattisgarh on Wednesday in connection with the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (PSC) examination scam. The investigation, which has been ongoing since the results were declared on May 11, 2023, centers on allegations of nepotism and corruption within the commission.
Key Details of the Case:
- Raids Conducted: The CBI’s operation covered 15 sites, including six in Raipur, one in Bilaspur, and two in Dhamtari. The raids targeted individuals who allegedly benefited from nepotism.
- Allegations: High-ranking officials within the commission are accused of appointing undeserving relatives to prestigious positions. The CBI has identified 16 candidates who reportedly secured top positions such as Deputy Collector and Deputy Superintendent of Police through these corrupt practices.
- Key Figures Named: The investigation has implicated several prominent figures, including former Chhattisgarh PSC Chairman Taman Singh Sonwani, former Secretary Jeevan Kishore Dhruv, and an examination controller. They are accused of manipulating the merit list to favor their relatives.
Beneficiaries Identified:
- Taman Singh Sonwani’s Family: Five family members of former chairman Sonwani are alleged beneficiaries, including his son Nitesh and daughter-in-law Nisha Kosale (both appointed as Deputy Collectors), his elder brother’s son Sahil (Deputy Superintendent of Police), his daughter-in-law Deepa Adil (District Excise Officer), and his daughter Sunita Joshi (Labour Officer).
- Other Influential Figures: The complaint also names Congress leader Sudhir Katiyar’s daughter Bhumika Katiyar and son-in-law Shashank Goel, as well as Congress leader Rajendra Shukla’s daughter Swarnim Shukla, as individuals who were allegedly favored in the recruitment process.
Investigation Progress:
- Previous Raids: Prior to Wednesday’s operations, the CBI had conducted raids on the homes of several officials and candidates involved in the case. The investigation aims to uncover the extent of the nepotism and ensure accountability for those who manipulated the examination results.
- Current Focus: The CBI’s focus has now shifted to the candidates who benefited from the scam. On Wednesday, the premises of 15 out of the 16 named candidates were searched, with one candidate’s residence previously raided.
Background: The CBI took over the investigation following complaints that top officials of the Chhattisgarh PSC had manipulated exam results to favor their relatives. The case has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of high-ranking officials and their family members in the alleged corruption.
The CBI’s ongoing investigation is expected to bring further clarity to the extent of the malpractice within the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
Comments are closed.