Extensive CBI Probe Uncovers Odisha Postal Recruitment Scam

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has launched a comprehensive probe into a recruitment scam following a complaint from the Director of Postal Services in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The investigation has led to searches at over 67 locations across multiple districts, including Kalahandi, Nuapada, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, Kandhamal, Kendujhar, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Bhadrak. The operation involves more than 204 officials, comprising 122 CBI officers and 82 personnel from other departments, underscoring the scale and gravity of the investigation. The teams are working to dismantle an interstate-organised gang implicated in providing fake certificates.On May 9, 2023, CBI registered a case under sections 120-B, 420, 468, and 471 read with 511 of the IPC, and section 7(a) of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (as amended in 2018), based on a complaint by the Postal Department. The complaint targets 63 candidates from the Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) Exam, 2023 (Odisha Circle) along with unidentified postal department officials and private individuals.The issue revolves around the recruitment of 1,382 Gramin Dak Sevak (GDS) positions, for which online applications were solicited on January 27, 2023. Applicants were required to upload their 10th pass certificates from recognized boards, with proficiency in the local language being a prerequisite. The selection process was automated based on 10th standard marks, and selected candidates received notification via SMS and email, instructing them to report for document verification within 15 days before appointment.During this verification, the Odisha Postal Circle allegedly found that 63 candidates across several divisions, including Baleswar, Mayurbhanj, Kalahandi, and Barhampur, had submitted forged 10th pass certificates. These counterfeit certificates were reportedly issued by boards such as the Board of High School and Intermediate Education, Allahabad; West Bengal Board, Kolkata; and Jharkhand Academic Council, Ranchi. The complaint suggests the involvement of an interstate racket colluding with candidates to produce and supply these fake documents.