The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has officially taken over the probe into the Odisha Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment scam, marking a major step toward uncovering the full extent of the alleged irregularities.
According to the official notification, the CBI’s Bhubaneswar branch has registered a case and assigned a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officer to lead the investigation. A dedicated team has been formed under the officer’s supervision to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry.
Previously, the case was handled by the Odisha Crime Branch, which has now transferred all documents and evidence to the CBI. While the Crime Branch had already arrested most of the individuals directly involved, the CBI will focus on identifying and tracking down those operating behind the scenes.
Key Associate Arrested
On Wednesday, the Crime Branch apprehended Sagar Gouda, a close associate of alleged mastermind Shankar Prusty. Reports suggest that Shankar maintained contact with various agents through Sagar, who reportedly managed the Digha module connected to the scam.
Probe May Reveal Links to Other Recruitment Irregularities
Sources indicate that the ongoing CBI investigation could uncover links between the SI recruitment scam and other examination-related irregularities in the state. The development comes shortly after the Orissa High Court ordered a re-examination of the Assistant Section Officer (ASO) mains test conducted by Silicon Tech, citing unsatisfactory procedures.
While the Crime Branch will no longer lead the case, officials confirmed that it may continue to assist the CBI if new evidence or leads emerge during the investigation.
