Odisha SI Exam Scam Handed Over to CBI After Cross-State Links Exposed

The Odisha government has officially transferred the investigation into the Police Sub-Inspector (SI) Recruitment Exam scam to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The decision comes after the Crime Branch–CID uncovered inter-state links involving Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and other states, indicating the presence of a larger organised racket behind the leak.

1. Exam Scam Unfolds Amid Recruitment Drive

The Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB) conducted the written exam for 933 Sub-Inspector posts, attracting over 1.53 lakh candidates. However, reports of question paper leaks and manipulation surfaced shortly before the test, prompting an immediate investigation.

The exam, originally scheduled for October 5–6, 2025, has now been postponed indefinitely, leaving thousands of aspirants uncertain about the next steps in the recruitment process.

2. CBI to Take Over Investigation

According to a statement shared by the Information and Public Relations Department (I&PR) on X (formerly Twitter), the CBI will now lead the probe to “fully expose the corruption” and ensure strict action against all involved. The state government believes a central investigation is necessary to trace the cross-border operations and identify the masterminds behind the scam.

3. Crime Branch Findings and Arrests

Initial investigations by the Odisha Crime Branch–CID revealed shocking details about the extent of the irregularities.

• Over 120 arrests have been made so far, including candidates, intermediaries, and officials.
• Authorities intercepted buses carrying 114 candidates and mediators near the Odisha–Andhra Pradesh border, who were reportedly heading to “special coaching” centres equipped with leaked question papers.
• The probe also points to organised criminal groups operating across states to manipulate the recruitment process.

4. Private Agencies Under Scrutiny

Investigators are also examining the role of private agencies hired by the OPRB for exam logistics, paper setting, and evaluation. Some of these agencies allegedly subcontracted confidential tasks, raising questions about data security and oversight in the recruitment process.

The government has indicated that contracts and procedures of such agencies will undergo a comprehensive audit to identify lapses and prevent future breaches.

5. CM Mohan Charan Majhi Orders CBI Probe

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi ordered the CBI investigation amid rising public concern and political pressure. He stated that the move is intended to restore transparency and credibility in the state’s police recruitment system.

The Chief Minister emphasised that those found guilty—no matter their rank or role—will face severe legal consequences. He also directed the Home Department to ensure that the interests of genuine candidates are protected during the re-evaluation of the recruitment process.

6. Future Safeguards and Reforms

To prevent similar incidents, the Odisha government is considering the creation of a dedicated Police and Uniformed Services Recruitment Commission. The proposed body would oversee all future recruitment drives for police personnel, ensuring digital security, strict monitoring, and transparent evaluation.

The Odisha SI exam scam has triggered widespread outrage among aspirants and the public. With the CBI now taking charge, authorities aim to uncover the full scale of the corruption network and restore faith in the state’s recruitment systems.