Bhubaneswar: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will now probe the Odisha Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment exam scandal with the Central government granting permission in this regard.
The Centre has approved the recommendation made by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for a CBI probe into the SI recruitment scam, an official statement said.
The Chief Minister had on October 22 recommended a CBI investigation into the scandal to ensure a comprehensive and impartial inquiry into the alleged irregularities.
The scam, which involves allegations of a paper leak and other malpractices, is being investigated by the Crime Branch of Odisha Police. However, suspicions have arisen that the corruption extends beyond Odisha, potentially involving organised gangs with links to states like Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. The interstate nature of the case, including possible attempts, encouragement, and conspiracies related to the fraud, prompted the need for a central agency’s involvement.
Therefore, for a proper and detailed investigation, the Chief Minister had recommended the Centre for a CBI investigation. Accepting the CM’s request, the Central government has ordered a CBI investigation.
Officials said that the CBI will now investigate the attempt, incitement, and conspiracy related to the corruption. A notification issued by the Union Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions states that the central government has extended the powers and jurisdiction of the CBI to Odisha for the investigation.
“The consent is also accorded for investigation of attempts, abetments and conspiracies in relation to or in connection with the offences in the said case and any other offences committed in the course of same transaction arising out of the same facts,” the notification said.
Notably, the scandal first surfaced on September 30, 2025, through an anonymous tip about the paper leak, leading to the arrest of 114 candidates and three agents. While the aspirants have been granted bail, key suspects such as alleged mastermind Shankar Prusty and associate Muna Mohanty remain in custody and are scheduled for polygraph tests.
As many as 124 people have been arrested in connection with the massive question paper leak racket for the Combined Police Service Examination (CPSE)-2024 conducted by the Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB).
The group allegedly operated under Prusty, director of Panchsoft Technologies Pvt Ltd, Bhubaneswar, and he closely monitored the syndicate through agents who contacted aspirants, collected original certificates and blank cheques, and promised question papers in exchange for payments of Rs 20–25 lakh. His close associate Suresh Nayak, owner of Bhubaneswar-based Silicon Techlab, has also been arrested.
