Odisha Police SI recruitment scam: CBI takes Bihar’s Amit Bharati on 3-day remand to probe inter-state dealings

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the alleged Odisha Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment examination scam, taking arrested accused Amit Bharati on a three-day custodial remand from Thursday for detailed interrogation.

Authorities are now focusing on the alleged inter-state links of the racket, with the agency examining how the network extended from Bihar into Odisha and who all played key roles in the operation, reported sources.

Amit Bharati, who was arrested in Bihar earlier this week, is being questioned on his alleged role as a crucial intermediary in the scam.

According to officials familiar with the investigation, Bharati is suspected of arranging candidates and facilitating financial transactions, with investigators probing claims that he acted as a deal broker in transactions allegedly amounting to Rs 25 lakh.

Focus On Inter-State Links And Money Trail

CBI officials said the current phase of interrogation aims to uncover the full extent of the inter-state network involved in the alleged manipulation of the SI recruitment examination.

The agency is examining who coordinated operations across state boundaries and how funds were routed as part of the alleged conspiracy. Investigators are also working to identify additional beneficiaries and facilitators linked to the racket, as well as to establish the sequence of financial dealings connected to the examination process.

Earlier Remand Of Prime Accused

The arrest and remand of Amit Bharati followed the custodial interrogation of alleged prime accused Shankar Prusty, who was previously taken on a four-day remand along with co-accused Suresh Nayak and Sagar Gaudar.

During their questioning, investigators reportedly gathered inputs related to coordination roles, financial arrangements, and the operational structure of the alleged scam.

The investigation continues to examine alleged irregularities in the conduct of the SI recruitment examination, including how candidates were contacted and how examination-related logistics may have been compromised. The role of intermediaries in connecting candidates with organisers of the alleged racket remains a key focus area.

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Separately, the agency is also scrutinising procedural aspects of the recruitment process. Officials have confirmed that an SP-rank officer associated with the Odisha Police Recruitment Board (OPRB) has been questioned in connection with the case, while notices have been issued to other board members to appear before investigators.

Amit Bharati is expected to be produced before the designated court after completion of his three-day remand, in accordance with legal procedure.