Amid SI exam scam, Bhadrak Police warn Home Guard aspirants; issue helpline numbers

Bhadrak police have issued an alert to candidates applying for Home Guard posts, warning them against touts and fraudulent offers promising selection in exchange for money. The caution comes ahead of the scrutiny and recruitment process, after police reportedly received inputs about agents approaching aspirants with false assurances.

According to reports, applications for 139 Home Guard posts have been completed in two phases, with 47 posts in the first round and 92 in the second, drawing a total of 7,068 applicants from Bhadrak district.

Taking a strict view against fraud, police have issued multiple contact numbers public, including the CUG mobile number, the DIB number, and a landline. Police have appealed to aspirants to immediately report any attempt to demand money or offer illegal support.

To counter potential fraud, Bhadrak SP Manoj Rout issued a public advisory. “We received inputs regarding alleged attempts to sabotage the exam. We have released 139 Home Guard posts and hope to fill them soon. I would request people not to fall prey to such schemes,” he said.

Aspirants Demand Free and Fair Recruitment

Aspirants who have submitted applications also said they expect full transparency from the administration and want merit alone to determine selections.

“All of us who are preparing for the Home Guard examinations hope that the exams are conducted fairly. Only eligible aspirants who crack the exam must become Home Guards,” said candidate Manoj Gochhayat.

Some applicants pointed to past controversies, particularly the irregularities in the SI recruitment previously reported in Odisha, urging authorities to prevent any repeat. “In the last SI exam, several aspirants destroyed their lives by illegal means, and I hope such an instance is not repeated,” said aspirant Sudarshan Padhiary.

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No Appointment Possible Through Bribes

Police have stated that Home Guard recruitment will be entirely merit-based and that no official or intermediary can influence the process in exchange for money. Officials clarified that the recruitment procedure is being monitored directly at the district level to ensure transparency.

According to the SP’s office, candidates should not rely on anyone claiming to provide jobs through payment and must immediately report such attempts using the released helpline numbers. Authorities say strict action will follow against those trying to lure aspirants.