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FIR filed against former KPSC chairman over alleged irregularities in veterinary officer recruitment

New Delhi: A fresh FIR has been registered against former Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar in connection with alleged irregularities in the recruitment of 400 Veterinary Officers.

The case was registered at the Vidhana Soudha Police Station following a complaint filed by Veterinary Officer Manjunath, who alleged that recruitment posts were awarded to relatives and candidates who had allegedly paid money. The FIR also names certain KPSC members and a few selected candidates.

According to the complaint, around 29 candidates were allegedly selected through irregular means in the Veterinary Officer recruitment examination held in January 2026.

The complainant has raised questions over the selection of 24 candidates, including Suguresh Jak, who is reportedly related to the former KPSC chairman. It has also been alleged that intermediaries coached certain candidates and that OMR answer sheets were manipulated to alter examination scores.

The complaint further refers to a viral audio clip allegedly discussing an Rs 80 lakh deal connected to the recruitment process. It also alleges that confidential information, including candidates’ personal details and OMR sheet scores, was accessed by intermediaries with the involvement of the accused.

Based on these allegations, police have registered a case under provisions relating to cheating and the Karnataka Public Examinations Act. The investigation is currently underway.

Reacting to the controversy, Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge said no one should be allowed to jeopardise the future of students through irregularities in recruitment.

“No one should play with the lives of students. The ruling party and the opposition should come together to bring in stronger legislation and establish a transparent recruitment system at both the state and central levels,” Kharge said.

The minister also criticised the BJP, questioning its role in the appointment of the former KPSC chairman and asking who was defending him before the High Court.

The latest FIR adds to the growing scrutiny surrounding the KPSC’s recruitment processes, with investigations into the alleged irregularities continuing.