On Monday, the Supreme Court will hear a petition calling for a federal investigation into alleged irregularities in the Jharkhand Combined Civil Services Preliminary Competitive Examination, 2025. This examination was organized by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) for the recruitment of 103 positions. The plea raises concerns about the integrity of the examination process, prompting a potential judicial inquiry into the matter.
Comprehensive Investigation Needed in Examination Allegations
Devgan emphasizes that the allegations surrounding the examination extend beyond individual candidates or isolated incidents of malpractice. He asserts that a thorough investigation is essential, encompassing the entire process of the examination. This includes the preparation and printing of question papers, as well as the coding, storage, transportation, and distribution of these materials. Additionally, the conduct, collection, and custody of OMR sheets, along with their scanning, evaluation, and the generation of final results, must be scrutinized to ensure integrity throughout the examination process.
The plea seeks an independent, impartial and time-bound Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the examination process, besides immediate preservation of physical and electronic records connected with it. Seeking transfer of the probe to the CBI despite the ongoing CID investigation, Devgan has cited the need for institutional independence and public confidence. He clarified that he is not alleging personal mala fides against the CID officers conducting the probe. Devgan has not sought cancellation of the examination merely based on allegations or media reports. Instead, he wants its integrity determined through an independent investigation.
The Jharkhand high court on August 20 stayed the government’s orders cancelling the 11th and 13th JPSC examinations and appointments made pursuant to them, while seeking the state’s response.
