ED raids locked house of KPSC ex-controller

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a search at the locked residence of former Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) examination controller, Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar, on Sunday. The search was conducted in connection with alleged irregularities in recruitment processes. This was part of a series of searches carried out across Karnataka on August 18 in eight districts, including the residences and offices of former KPSC chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar and sitting member Shanta Hosamani.

The Bengaluru residence of Gangwar, located on Jayanmahal Road, was also searched, as the house was locked when officials arrived, necessitating the use of a locksmith to gain entry. The ED team, comprising CRPF personnel and officials, spent nearly three hours attempting to enter the locked residence. Gangwar, a 2016-batch IAS officer, had served in significant capacities until March, handling responsibilities related to the veterinary officer recruitment examination and supervision of the KAS examination.

His absence from Bengaluru had earlier led to speculation about his whereabouts, though he subsequently revealed he had returned to his native Uttar Pradesh for his father's health. Home Minister Priyank Kharge later clarified this, dispelling rumors of Kumar's disappearance. The ED searches have added a new dimension to the investigation into the KPSC recruitment case, with officials now examining documents and other materials believed to be relevant to the recruitment process and alleged irregularities.

The searches are part of an expanding investigation into alleged corruption in KPSC recruitments, with investigators probing the roles of individuals connected to the commission and others who may have had influence over the recruitment process. The ED has not disclosed details of the documents or other materials recovered during the searches, but officials are expected to review the seized material before deciding the next steps in the case.

The latest searches have intensified scrutiny on the KPSC recruitment process, particularly the selection and examination procedures for veterinary officers.