Odisha SI Recruitment Scam: CBI Charge sheet Raises Questions Over Police Recruitment Board Role

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha SI recruitment scam has taken a serious turn after the Central Bureau of Investigation filed a detailed charge sheet, exposing alarming facts that raise major concerns about the functioning of the Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB). The findings suggest that the alleged manipulation of the Sub-Inspector recruitment process was planned months in advance, casting doubt on institutional oversight and accountability.

According to the chargesheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation, illegal arrangements linked to the recruitment exam were finalised as early as March 2025, long before the examination was eventually cancelled.

Odisha SI Recruitment Scam Planned Months Before Exam

The investigation revealed that while the responsibility for printing question papers officially rested with the Odisha Police Recruitment Board, the process was allegedly compromised by Suresh Nayak, Managing Director of Silicon Institute of Technology.

CBI investigators found that Nayak reportedly printed an additional set of question papers without authorisation. These papers were allegedly used to strike a deal worth Rs 25 lakh with selected aspirants, raising serious questions about how such a breach could occur within a tightly controlled recruitment system.

Exam Cancellation Raises Questions on Institutional Silence

The scam reportedly began to unravel when the Sub-Inspector examination was abruptly cancelled in March 2025. With the exam called off unexpectedly, the alleged deal collapsed, leaving investigators to examine whether officials within OPRB were aware of the malpractice or chose to remain silent.

This development has intensified scrutiny on the recruitment board, as the chargesheet indicates that such large-scale manipulation may not have been possible without lapses at multiple levels.

Odisha SI Recruitment Scam Probe Focuses on OPRB Officials

As part of the ongoing investigation, the CBI has already questioned senior officials linked to the recruitment process. Among those interrogated are SP Balabhadra Deep and Section Officer Gautam Behera of the Odisha Police Recruitment Board, regarding their possible roles or knowledge of the irregularities.

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Officials familiar with the probe confirmed that questioning is continuing and that further evidence is being examined to determine the extent of internal involvement or negligence.

More Revelations Expected as Investigation Deepens

The CBI has indicated that the investigation is far from over. Sources suggest that additional disclosures could emerge in the coming days as digital records, financial transactions, and institutional procedures come under closer scrutiny.

With the Odisha SI recruitment scam exposing vulnerabilities in the recruitment framework, the case is expected to have far-reaching implications for future police recruitment processes and public trust in examination systems