Odisha Police SI recruitment scam: 114 aspirants granted bail, walk free from Berhampur jail

A total of 114 Sub-Inspector (SI) aspirants walked out of the Berhampur Circle Jail after nearly a month in custody, following the Vigilance Court’s decision to grant them bail in the Odisha Police SI recruitment exam scam.

The release comes even as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has formally recommended a CBI investigation into the irregularities surrounding the examination.

114 Aspirants Released After Court Grants Bail

According to jail officials, all 114 candidates arrested for their alleged involvement in the recruitment scam were released on Thursday after completing bail formalities. Notably, each was granted bail on a bond of Rs 50,000 and two local sureties, as directed by the Berhampur Vigilance Court.

The order comes as a major development in one of the state’s largest examination frauds. The Court has, however, imposed strict conditions on the released candidates. It stated that the released candidates must report regularly to local police, assist investigators, and avoid contact with witnesses.

Additionally, they are barred from leaving India without prior approval, ensuring continued cooperation with the probe.

While the 114 aspirants received relief, the Court denied bail to alleged key middleman Muna Mohanty and eight of his associates, citing the seriousness of charges and possible evidence tampering.

Investigation Trail

The Odisha Police SI recruitment scam came to light after the Crime Branch uncovered widespread manipulation in the written examination conducted by the Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB).

Investigators alleged that certain intermediaries had leaked examination papers, collected bribes, and used fake identities and digital networks to facilitate cheating.

A total of 123 individuals were arrested in the case, including 114 candidates and multiple agents allegedly operating across state lines. The Crime Branch probe revealed links to organised rackets in other states.

ALSO READ: CBI probe into Odisha Police SI recruitment scam: Odisha govt issues notification

CBI To Take Over Probe

Amid mounting pressure and calls for transparency, the Odisha Government on October 27 officially handed over the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The decision was conveyed to the Orissa High Court by Advocate General Pitambar Acharya, following CM Majhi’s recommendation for a central probe.

Sources confirmed that all evidence gathered by the State Crime Branch will now be shared with the CBI for further investigation.