Odisha Police SI exam scam: CM Mohan Majhi recommends CBI probe

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) may take over the investigation into the Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment scam. This major recommendation comes after Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held a review meeting, aiming for a thorough and impartial probe.

The final decision regarding the CBI probe into the scam will be taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

There are strong suspicions of involvement of an inter-state organised criminal gang in the alleged corruption. Keeping these serious concerns in mind, the government has recommended handing over the case to the CBI to ensure the entire scam is uncovered and all those involved are brought to justice.

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The Chief Minister’s decision reflects the intention to expose the full extent of the corruption and to deliver exemplary punishment to those responsible.

Sources indicate the scam involves multiple layers: candidates reportedly travelling across state borders, paying large sums of money (approximately Rs 20‑25 lakh each) for assured selection, and using complex networks of brokers and middlemen.

One key accused, Sankar Prusty, director of a private firm linked to the examination process, remains at large despite a special look‐out circular being issued.

The backlog of investigations so far shows more than 117 arrests made, including aspirants, brokers and intermediaries. Opposition parties have raised concerns over the potential involvement of senior officials and the integrity of the state’s recruitment framework.

A fresh recruitment schedule for the SI posts, initially scheduled for 5‑6 October 2025 but postponed due to the scandal, remains uncertain as authorities await progress in the investigation.