Rajasthan High Court Cancels 2021 Police Sub-Inspector Exam Over Corruption
The Rajasthan High Court has cancelled the 2021 police sub-inspector recruitment examination due to widespread irregularities, including a paper leak and the alleged involvement of Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) members. The court ruled that the entire recruitment process was "polluted" by fraud. The exam, for which 859 posts were advertised, had been under investigation by a Special Operations Group, which had arrested over 50 trainee sub-inspectors in connection with the scandal.
Unpacked:
The selected candidates, including those undergoing training, have been arrested or suspended, with more than 50 trainee sub-inspectors implicated. The recruitment process has been cancelled, and appointments halted, meaning their selection stands void and they will not join the police force.
The scam involved not only over 50 trainee sub-inspectors but also six Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) members, including one who allegedly leaked the paper to his children. In total, 63 individuals have been arrested, indicating substantial collusion between officials and candidates.
Following the cancellation, a fresh recruitment process is expected, but no official timeline has been announced yet. The High Court's decision highlights the need for stricter safeguards and may lead to reforms in examination procedures to prevent future fraud.
Both the BJP and Congress governments have debated the issue, with the BJP previously opposing cancellation. Candidates expressed shock and disappointment, while advocates hope the ruling deters future fraud. The public response has included protests and demands for accountability and reform.