TV
Over four months since receiving their appointment letters, over 1,800 candidates selected for the Odisha Special Police (OSP) and Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) continue to wait for their formal induction into service, triggering growing frustration, psychological distress, and now, warnings of large-scale protests.
According to the allegations, the selected candidates have not been allowed to join duty despite clearing all stages of recruitment, including the final merit list published on March 5 and receiving appointment letters by March 17.
No Clarity, Hopelessness Prevails
As per sources, one selected candidate reportedly passed away during the waiting period, although it is unclear if it was due to any emotional and mental toll of his candidature situation.
On the other hand, many others disclosed that they had resigned from other jobs or rejected alternate offers in anticipation of joining the police battalions, a decision that has now left them in limbo.
The candidates stated that after waiting patiently for months, hoping for an update, they are now considering serious steps of protest. They warned that if the government fails to take action within the next seven days, they will launch a massive agitation.
Contrast With New Approvals for OISF Battalions
Notably, this delay comes at a time when the Odisha government has green-lit the creation of two new battalions under the Odisha Industrial Security Force (OISF), adding 1,944 sanctioned posts, including 1,350 constables, as per a Home Department notification issued on July 22.
However, recruits awaiting OSP and IRB postings argue that while the government is moving swiftly to expand other security wings like OISF, their legitimate appointments are stuck in procedural uncertainty. With livelihoods on hold and families under financial strain, many are questioning the state’s prioritisation and communication.
The recruits have also demanded immediate action from the Home Department and urged Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to intervene and resolve the stalemate.
