The Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) has come under intense scrutiny after multiple candidates alleged widespread malpractice across several state exams. In response, the state government constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by Inspector General S. Ajeetha Begum of the Economic Offences Wing, which is now moving to record detailed statements from the complainants.

Background and Political Context

Kerala’s PSC has historically been a flashpoint for debates on meritocracy and political patronage. During the previous Left Democratic Front (LDF) administration, several appointments were challenged, leading to street protests—most notably a clash between Youth Congress workers and police outside the PSC office in Thiruvananthapuram on July 6, 2026. These events underscored how examination integrity is intertwined with the state’s electoral politics.

Nature of Complaints and Scope of Investigation

To date, the SIT has logged more than ten complaints alleging question‑paper tampering, biased evaluation, and manipulation of rank lists. Petitioners have submitted documents, email trails and other material they claim demonstrate systematic irregularities. The team’s immediate task is to conduct a prima facie assessment to identify which allegations rise to the level of criminal offence.

Role of the Crime Branch and Procedural Steps

The Crime Branch will request comprehensive records from the PSC, including examination schedules, marking schemes, and the State Planning Board‑related test files that are suspected of being compromised. The PSC has been formally instructed to retain all relevant documentation and refrain from any destruction of evidence. Additionally, statements from PSC officials involved in conducting the exams will be recorded.

Timeline and Potential Outcomes

The Crime Branch aims to submit a preliminary investigation report to the State Police Chief by the end of the month. The Home Department will then decide on the next steps—ranging from filing First Information Reports (FIRs) to recommending administrative reforms or prosecution of responsible officials. Should the investigation substantiate the claims, it could trigger a sweeping overhaul of Kerala’s recruitment framework, restoring public confidence and reshaping political calculations.

Beyond legal ramifications, the probe serves as a barometer for the state’s commitment to transparent governance. Its conclusions will likely influence future policy debates on merit‑based selection and the role of political oversight in public service recruitment.