Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has approved the transfer of the Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment exam scam investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The move follows revelations suggesting that the corruption network could extend beyond state borders, involving organised criminal syndicates across multiple states.
The controversial SI recruitment process, launched to strengthen Odisha’s police force, has been under scrutiny over allegations of large-scale irregularities, bribery, and manipulation. Initially, the probe was handled by the Crime Branch of the CID, but early findings indicated that the scam’s reach may not be confined to Odisha alone.
Inter-State Links Unearthed
According to sources, preliminary investigations revealed connections between operatives in Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and possibly other regions. Investigators suspect that inter-state criminal networks played a key role in leaking exam papers, manipulating candidate lists, and facilitating illegal transactions.
Officials have described the scam as “systemic,” with evidence pointing toward a well-organised racket that exploited recruitment vulnerabilities in multiple states.
CBI to Take Over the Investigation
In a statement, the Chief Minister’s Office said the CBI’s expertise in handling complex, multi-state cases made it the right agency to “unravel the full extent of the conspiracy” and “ensure strict accountability.”
CM Majhi reportedly directed officials to extend full cooperation to the central agency, stressing that “no one involved, regardless of position or influence, will be spared.”
Public Reaction and Political Impact
The decision to hand over the case to the CBI has been welcomed by opposition parties and civil society groups, who had been demanding an impartial, transparent probe. The move is also seen as an attempt by the state government to restore public faith in the recruitment process and send a strong message against corruption.
With the CBI set to take charge, focus now shifts to uncovering how deep the alleged nexus runs — and whether more high-profile names will emerge in the coming weeks.
