The Odisha Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment test, conducted by the Odisha Staff Selection Commission (OSSC), is at the heart of a major scandal involving allegations of widespread malpractice and the involvement of an “organised criminal syndicate.” The Opposition has intensified calls for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe to uncover the truth behind the controversy, which has severely undermined public trust in the recruitment process.
The Allegations
The controversy erupted after reports revealed that the 2022 SI recruitment test was plagued by irregularities, including question paper leaks, impersonation, and the use of unfair means by candidates. Whistleblowers and investigative journalists have accused a well-organised criminal syndicate of orchestrating these malpractices with surgical precision.
Sources claim that the syndicate allegedly charged aspirants hefty sums—ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh—to guarantee their selection. Their methods reportedly included leaking question papers, providing answers during the exam, and even arranging for proxy candidates to take the test on behalf of the actual aspirants. The syndicate is said to have ties with influential individuals, including politicians and bureaucrats, raising serious questions about the depth of their network.
Political Fallout
The Opposition, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress, has launched a fierce attack on the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government, accusing it of complicity in the scam. BJP leader and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated, “The involvement of an organised criminal syndicate in the recruitment process is a clear indication of the state government’s failure to ensure transparency.”
The Congress has also demanded accountability, with senior leader Narasingha Mishra calling for a CBI inquiry. “This is not just a case of malpractice; it is a serious crime that has ruined the futures of thousands of honest candidates. Only a CBI probe can ensure a fair investigation,” Mishra asserted.
Government’s Response
Under mounting pressure, the Odisha government has dismissed the allegations as “politically motivated” but has announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the irregularities. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has pledged to take strict action against those found guilty.
While the SIT has been welcomed by some, the Opposition remains skeptical, arguing that a state-level investigation lacks the impartiality and resources needed to address a scam of this scale.
Impact on Aspirants
The scandal has left thousands of aspirants disillusioned, many of whom had viewed the recruitment test as a pathway to a stable career. “We worked hard for months, only to find out that the system was rigged. It’s heartbreaking,” said one candidate, who requested anonymity.
The controversy has also raised broader concerns about the integrity of recruitment processes in the state, prompting calls for systemic reforms to prevent future incidents.
The Way Forward
As political tensions escalate, the demand for a CBI probe continues to grow. The Opposition has vowed to keep the issue alive, with plans to raise it in the upcoming assembly session. Meanwhile, civil society groups and student organizations have staged protests, demanding justice for the affected candidates.
The Odisha SI recruitment scam highlights the pervasive challenges of corruption in public examinations, which remain a critical gateway to government jobs in India. While the SIT’s findings are awaited, the controversy underscores the urgent need for robust mechanisms to safeguard the sanctity of such processes.
All eyes are now on the state and central governments as the battle over the probe unfolds. Will the truth behind the “organised criminal syndicate” be revealed, or will the allegations remain entangled in political wrangling? The answer will determine not just the fate of the SI recruitment test but also the credibility of Odisha’s governance system.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.
