Odisha Police SI recruitment scam sparks bitter political face-off

The political war of words over the Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment scam in Odisha has intensified, with parties trading fresh allegations and counterclaims.

The BJP has raised questions about whether the Berhampur house from where alleged recruitment agent Shankar Prusty reportedly operated belongs to a BJD leader.

BJP MLA Babu Singh said that “no one can escape the law, no matter how hard they try to hide.” He claimed that while corruption existed earlier, it is under the BJP government that the culprits are being brought to justice. Referring to recruitment scams from 2019 and 2022, Singh questioned how many of those currently employed had actually secured their jobs on merit.

Singh revealed that 118 people have so far been arrested in connection with the case, asserting that not only “small fish” but also “big ones” would face action soon.

“Those who played with the future of students and gave jobs to undeserving candidates are now being exposed. We are determined to reach the root of this corruption and catch the big fish. Decisions have been taken, and stern action will follow. One Subrat Chhatoi, who is being talked about — which party was he in? Senior BJD leaders protected him in the past. The rot was deep — nearly 50–60% of candidates got jobs through one particular agency,” alleged BJP MLA Babu Singh

Meanwhile, the BJD has hit back, alleging that the Crime Branch investigation ordered by the Chief Minister is “under a cloud of suspicion” and aimed at shielding the main culprits.

BJD leader Pritiranjan Ghadei questioned why the March 7 exam was cancelled and under whose pressure the then OPRB Chairman Santosh Upadhyay resigned. He alleged that the government is arresting brokers merely to show numbers, while the masterminds remain untouched.

“The exam was to be held on March 7 — why was it cancelled? Why did the then OPRB Chairman resign, and under whose pressure? When the new chairman took charge, Rich Mind was replaced by Silicon. Who permitted Silicon’s entry? What were the issues that led to Rich Mind’s exit? The Chief Minister must clarify these doubts,” stated BJD Leader Pritiranjan Ghadei

Joining the chorus, the Congress has also demanded that the probe be handed over to the CBI, calling for a judicial inquiry and stern punishment for all those found guilty.

Also Read: Odisha SI recruitment scam: Arrested SSB Jawan, posted at Lok Seva Bhawan, earlier served at a former CM’s residence

Odisha PCC President Bhakta Charan Das alleged widespread corruption across sectors, including education, recruitment, and agriculture.

“Question papers are leaking in education and employment. Corruption continues in paddy procurement and fertilizer sales. Retired officials are being retained to perpetuate graft. Those who controlled things in the previous government still control them now. There must be transparency — let the CBI and judiciary uncover the truth,” Bhakta said.