Pralhad Joshi alleges Karnataka government involvement in KPSC scam

Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi has accused the Karnataka state government of being involved in an alleged recruitment scam within the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC). Joshi claimed the government is a “partner” in the fraud, citing the inability of authorities to locate an absconding IAS officer as evidence of systemic involvement.

The allegations follow an Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation into irregularities regarding the recruitment of veterinary officers. The probe includes the disappearance of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar following an ED search of his Bengaluru residence.

Previously, the ED searched the premises of former KPSC Chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar. While Sahukar was initially suspended by the Governor over allegations involving a fake income certificate used to secure a job for his daughter, the Karnataka High Court later stayed the suspension and ordered his reinstatement. Additionally, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy has called for the resignation of Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge in relation to the episode.