Karnataka   

Racket in recruitment of vehicle inspectors

S. Rajendran

Officials allegedly collected Rs. 15 crore in Karnataka

BANGALORE: A major racket in the recruitment by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) of Motor Vehicle Inspectors has come to light, according to sources.

A cartel comprising officials of the Motor Vehicles Department reportedly collected around Rs. 15 crore from a select group of candidates after assuring them that they would be appointed as inspectors.

The cartel allegedly made inroads into the KPSC to ensure that the candidates concerned were successful in obtaining appointment orders.

Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, who apparently is aware of the ramifications of the racket, told The Hindu that "I am also aware of this case of bribery. We are looking into the matter at the highest level. Stringent action will be taken against the offenders."

Asked whether the Government would order an inquiry or at least an investigation by the Corps of Detectives or the Lokayukta, the Chief Minister said he was looking into the matter. "Wait and see. Many heads may roll. I want the Transport Department to come clean," he said.

Sources in the Government told The Hindu that the problem started when the number of motor vehicle inspectors to be recruited was scaled down from 245 to 145.

A group within the Transport Department allegedly collected between Rs. 25 lakh and Rs. 35 lakh from 50 of the candidates.

Interestingly, nearly 40 of those shortlisted for the interview were kith and kin of retired and present employees of the Motor Vehicles Department.

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