Bengaluru: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Sunday conducted a search operation at the Bengaluru residence of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar in connection with alleged irregularities in recruitment conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC).
The action is part of the ED’s ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the recruitment of veterinary officers. The allegations include claims that candidates were allegedly asked to pay bribes ranging from Rs 70 lakh to Rs 80 lakh to secure appointments.
Gyanendra Kumar, a 2016-batch IAS officer, was reportedly associated with the examination process at the KPSC and served as its Controller of Examinations until March. He was also involved in the supervision of the KAS (Karnataka Administrative Service) examination and the recruitment process for veterinary officers.
ED officials arrived at the apartment complex where Kumar’s residence is located in three Innova vehicles, accompanied by CRPF personnel. The entrance to the apartment complex was initially locked, and security personnel reportedly refused to allow the officials inside, stating that they had no instructions to do so.
After contacting the officer, the security staff eventually allowed the ED team into the complex. However, Kumar’s residence was found locked. Officials then called a locksmith to open the door.
The entire process of opening the locked residence was reportedly videographed. ED and CRPF personnel also underwent security checks before entering the premises, as part of the procedure.
Officials reportedly spent nearly three hours attempting to gain entry into the residence. Kumar was not present at the house, and his phone was reportedly switched off.
Kumar had earlier reportedly left Bengaluru from the airport, prompting speculation about his whereabouts. Home Minister Priyank Kharge subsequently clarified that the IAS officer had travelled to Uttar Pradesh as his father was unwell.
The latest search comes three days after the ED conducted searches at the residence of former KPSC chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar and other premises in connection with the alleged recruitment irregularities.
The ED is examining documents and other material as part of its investigation into the alleged KPSC recruitment scam.
The ED has already conducted searches at multiple locations across Karnataka, including the premises of former KPSC Chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar and veterinary officers. The searches are reportedly the first such ED action at the KPSC in connection with a recruitment-related case.
(IANS)
