Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has leveled serious allegations of corruption in the KPSC recruitment of Assistant Executive Engineers, demanding the resignation of Home Minister Priyank Kharge.
- Serious allegations of fraud in KPSC recruitment for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj engineers.
- HD Kumaraswamy demands immediate resignation of Home Minister Priyank Kharge.
- Claims of OMR sheet tampering and illegal appointments without proper authorization.
- Demand for a high-level CBI investigation into the matter.
Bengaluru: The political landscape of Karnataka has been rocked by explosive allegations of corruption. Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has accused the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) of massive irregularities in the recruitment of Assistant Executive Engineers for the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department, subsequently demanding the resignation of Home Minister Priyank Kharge.
Addressing a press conference at the JDS office, Kumaraswamy released documents detailing the alleged discrepancies in the 2022 notification for Assistant Executive Engineer positions. He claimed that candidates listed in certain serial numbers of the provisional list had not even cleared the examination, yet were included in the selection process.
Evidence of Systematic Malpractice
The allegations go deeper than mere clerical errors. Kumaraswamy asserted that CID investigations have already indicated tampering with OMR sheets. He pointed out that despite a lack of CCTV footage and non-cooperation from the sub-committee, the final list was released in haste. Furthermore, he alleged that violating court orders and standard protocols, recruitment orders were issued to 24 candidates without the Chairman's signature, and they have been receiving salaries for the past year.
Kumaraswamy launched a scathing attack on Priyank Kharge, questioning his accountability. He noted that while Kharge was the Minister for Rural Development, these irregularities occurred under his watch. "If you want to respect your words and commit to transparent governance, resign immediately," Kumaraswamy stated, demanding a CBI investigation into the entire affair.
"Leaders who talk about 360-degree investigations in Delhi are overseeing illegal recruitments in their own departments here."
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this scandal strikes at the heart of meritocracy in Karnataka. The alleged manipulation of recruitment processes not only disenfranchises thousands of deserving candidates but also erodes public trust in state institutions. The political fallout could lead to significant instability if the government fails to address the transparency concerns raised.
In addition to the recruitment scam, Kumaraswamy also criticized the Home Ministry's handling of allegations against IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar, accusing the department of providing evasive answers regarding the officer's whereabouts. He concluded by calling upon the youth and 'Gen Z' to protest against the systemic corruption that is ruining the future of the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the specific allegations regarding the KPSC recruitment?
The allegations include tampering with OMR sheets, selecting candidates who failed the exam, and issuing appointment orders without the required signatures.
2. What action has HD Kumaraswamy demanded?
He has demanded the immediate resignation of Priyank Kharge and a comprehensive CBI investigation into the recruitment process.