Odisha Police SI ‘job fraud’ probe widens: OPRB postpones CPSE 2024 written exam

In the latest development, the Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB) has issued an official notice confirming ‘malpractice’ and ‘illegal activities’ ahead of the Odisha Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment exam process. It has subsequently postponed the CPSE-2024 exam scheduled for October 5 and 6.

As reported by OTV earlier today, the Board has taken note of the high-profile operation by Berhampur police, which intercepted buses carrying over 150 candidates suspected of being taken to Hyderabad for ‘special coaching’ linked to the SI recruitment examination.

Sources reported that the candidates were being taken to a ‘coaching centre’, which acted as a facility where large-scale bribery allegedly took place. Reports suggest that willing candidates could deposit a bribe to qualify for the SI exam. The nature of this transaction is currently under investigation, stated sources.

OPRB Launches Helpline, Cancels Exam

In a press release, the OPRB warned that giving or taking bribes during the recruitment process is a criminal offence and that strict action will be taken against those involved in any form of malpractice.

To facilitate reporting, the Board also launched a dedicated helpline: 9040493223, where aspirants or the public can lodge complaints or provide information regarding suspicious activities.

“OPRB is committed to ensuring a free, fair, and transparent recruitment examination for CPSE-2024. All inputs regarding malpractice are being thoroughly investigated, and candidates are urged to cooperate,” the notice states.

The SI written examinations were scheduled across all districts on October 5 and 6, 2025. As of the last reports, the exams have been postponed.

"In view of some unforeseen development, the Board decided to postpone the Written Examination CPSE-2024, which was earlier scheduled to be held on 05.10.2025 & 06.10.2025. Fresh date will be announced later," it declared in a press note.

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Crime Branch Probe Expected

Following the exposure of the scam, sources reported that the Odisha Police will hand the matter over to the Crime Branch. The agency will then investigate how long such alleged malpractice was going on, whether previous recruitment drives were affected, and whether any candidates who have already been selected might face disqualification.

The inquiry is also expected to scrutinise the agency responsible for conducting the exam and any individuals facilitating the illegal coaching and preferential treatment to aspirants.

OPRB Reiterates Vigilance After Scam

In its notice, OPRB stressed that some “mischievous elements” tried to involve candidates in illegal activities during the recruitment drive.

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The Board called on all aspirants to be vigilant and cooperate with authorities, reinforcing that stringent action will be taken against anyone attempting malpractice. This step, officials noted, is part of ongoing efforts to ensure CPSE-2024 examinations are conducted transparently and without bias.