The investigation into the discrepancies in examinations conducted for senior posts in the Kerala State Planning Board has entered a crucial phase, with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) seeking to question the PSC functionaries. Notices had been issued to the PSC members in this regard. The investigators were expected to question the members initially before summoning the chairperson.
However, the PSC members have reportedly rejected the notices, citing the rules and protocol governing the constitutional body. Instead, they have maintained that the investigators could question the members or record their statements at the PSC headquarters. The commission will formally communicate its position to the State government.
Departmental action
Meanwhile, the SIT has recommended departmental action against two PSC officials for procedural violations in the conduct of the examinations. Action has been sought against an additional secretary and a former deputy secretary who were associated with the examination section.The probe had unearthed serious lapses in the evaluation process. It was found that 10 questions carrying a total of 58 marks were left unevaluated, paving way for undeserving candidates to secure top ranks in the respective examinations.
While the ongoing investigation has broadened beyond an administrative lapse to examine whether there was any larger conspiracy of deliberate interference in the recruitment process, the Crime Branch is also likely to recommend the removal of the candidates who were eventually appointed in the top posts in the Kerala State Planning Board.