Rajasthan HC Confirms Cancellation of SI Recruitment-2021
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jaipur, April 4 (NationPress) In a pivotal ruling affecting a multitude of candidates, the Division Bench of the Rajasthan High Court has confirmed the cancellation of the Sub-Inspector (SI) Recruitment-2021, supporting the prior decision made by the Single Bench.
The Division Bench, led by Acting Chief Justice S.P. Sharma, announced its judgment on Saturday during the hearings of appeals lodged by both selected candidates and the State Government.
Furthermore, the court invalidated the suo motu cognizance previously taken by the Single Bench against the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC).
In a crucial statement, the Bench asserted that “political appointments within the Commission should be strictly prohibited.”
The court has instructed the State Government to create a new legal framework for RPSC selections, ensuring full transparency in recruitment practices, and to take measures to dismiss RPSC members who received negative evaluations from the Single Bench.
This controversy traces back to August 28, 2025, when the Single Bench annulled the SI Recruitment-2021 due to allegations of paper leaks and manipulation.
Subsequently, the Division Bench had put a stay on the cancellation on September 8, 2025, which resulted in extended legal disputes. After reviewing all arguments, the Division Bench reserved its decision on January 19, 2026, leading to the present outcome.
Harinder Neel, counsel for non-selected candidates, described the ruling as “a courageous and meaningful decision for the state's unemployed youth.”
Petitioner Kailash Chand Sharma remarked, “When the integrity and confidentiality of an examination are jeopardized, the recruitment must be annulled. Justice has been served.”
The matter had previously escalated to the Supreme Court, which on September 24, 2025, mandated a status quo and paused the field postings of selected candidates.
The Supreme Court also instructed the High Court to hasten the proceedings within a three-month timeframe.
In response to the SI Recruitment-2021 verdict, state minister Kirori Lal stated, “I applaud the Hon’ble High Court’s decision to annul the SI Recruitment-2021 process. Significant evidence regarding irregularities in this examination was presented to the SOG and related agencies. However, the former Gehlot administration opted to ignore the issue, undermining the diligent efforts of the youth.”
“Our administration has taken stringent actions against those involved in the paper-leak conspiracy and assured the arrest of those engaged in fraudulent activities. We are devoted to reforming the system. I have consistently supported earnest, unemployed youth without regard for political ramifications and will continue to oppose any efforts to thwart their aspirations. Now, merit will triumph over manipulation.”
Kirori has long advocated for the cancellation of SI Recruitment exams, alleging fraud and paper leak incidents.