Did the Centre Approve a CBI Probe into the Odisha SI Exam Scam?
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Synopsis
The Odisha SI exam scam has taken a serious turn as the Centre approves a CBI probe. This scandal has deep roots and may involve multiple states, raising questions about the integrity of the recruitment process. What does this mean for the future of the examination and those involved?
Key Takeaways
- CBI investigation approved into Odisha SI exam scam.
- Allegations involve large-scale corruption and irregularities.
- Scam extends beyond Odisha to other states.
- CPSE-2024 examination postponed indefinitely.
- Investigation empowered to address all related offences.
Bhubaneswar, Nov 11 (NationPress) The Union Government has sanctioned a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the extensive multi-crore Odisha Police Sub-Inspector recruitment examination scam, as confirmed by a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) on Tuesday.
It is important to note that allegations of widespread irregularities and corruption emerged in the Combined Police Service Examination (CPSE)-2024 for the recruitment of Sub-Inspectors, prompting the State Police’s Crime Branch to initiate an investigation.
During this investigation, suspicions were raised that the corruption might have links beyond Odisha, extending to other states like Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. There are also indications of an organized criminal gang operating across state lines.
In response to these findings, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi proposed a CBI investigation to the Union Government. Acting on this recommendation, the Centre has authorized a CBI investigation into the matter.
Significantly, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (Department of Personnel and Training) released a notification on Tuesday, indicating that this decision follows the approval received from the Odisha Government via its notification dated October 31, 2025.
The CBI will take over case number (07/2025), which was registered on October 1, 2025, at the CID-CB Police Station in Cuttack. This case involves violations pertaining to several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and the Odisha Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
The notification authorizes the CBI to investigate, oversee, and undertake all necessary actions related to the case, including attempts, abetments, and conspiracies linked to the offences or arising from the same incident.
The CPSE-2024 examination, initially set for October 5 and 6, 2025, has now been postponed indefinitely.
Previously, the Odisha Police had dismantled the large-scale scam, resulting in the arrest of 114 aspirants and three middlemen after the interception of three buses in Andhra Pradesh on the night of September 29.
The Crime Branch further managed to apprehend the alleged mastermind, Sankar Prusty, along with several of his key associates during the investigation.
Point of View
The decision to initiate a CBI probe into the Odisha SI exam scam reflects a crucial commitment to uphold transparency and accountability in public service recruitment. This action is not just about addressing local concerns; it's about restoring public trust in the integrity of governmental processes nationwide.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the CBI probe into the Odisha SI exam?
The CBI probe was prompted by allegations of widespread irregularities and corruption in the Combined Police Service Examination for Sub-Inspector recruitment.
When was the CBI investigation approved?
The CBI investigation was approved on November 11, 2023, following a recommendation from the Chief Minister of Odisha.
Which states are potentially involved in the corruption?
The investigation has raised suspicions that the corruption may extend beyond Odisha to include Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.
What actions can the CBI undertake in this investigation?
The CBI is authorized to investigate, supervise, and take all necessary actions related to the case, including addressing attempts and conspiracies linked to the offences.
What happened to the CPSE-2024 examination?
The CPSE-2024 examination, originally scheduled for October 5 and 6, 2025, has been postponed indefinitely due to the ongoing investigation.
