A teacher recruitment ‘scam’ from 1998 falls apart as Madhya Pradesh High Court scraps convictions

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has overturned the convictions of eight individuals accused in a 1998 teacher recruitment scam. The court found the prosecution's case to be riddled with missing links and hostile witnesses, rendering it highly suspicious. The case stemmed from the hiring of 207 Shikshak Karmi Grade-III teachers in Sanwer Janpad Panchayat.

After receiving 2,539 applications, 1,796 candidates were interviewed, resulting in the selection of 207 candidates. The Lokayukta's Special Police Establishment later alleged corruption and nepotism in the selection process. Eight individuals were sentenced to two years of rigorous imprisonment and fined Rs 10,000 each, with an additional six months added if the fine was not paid.

The court stated that nearly every key complainant and candidate turned hostile during the trial. The prosecution failed to provide evidence of dishonest intentions or financial gain, and the documents used to prove family relationships were found to be legally weak and unverified. The court also dismissed allegations against the CEO and BEO, stating that imposing vicarious criminal liability was legally impermissible. The high court ruled that the trial court's decision was legally incorrect and set it aside.