Kerala PSC Recruitment Controversy Intensifies as Crime Branch Investigates

The investigation into the Kerala Public Service Commission's recruitment process is escalating, with the Crime Branch now involved. Key documents have been handed over to investigators, while candidates face denial of access to the same records under the RTI Act. Allegations of procedural lapses and manipulation have surfaced, particularly after it was revealed that the top-ranked candidate is affiliated with a Leftist organization. The PSC's contrasting actions raise serious questions about its transparency. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the credibility of the PSC, Kerala's primary recruitment agency.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 18, 2026, 13:17 IST

Investigation into Kerala PSC Recruitment

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Thiruvananthapuram, July 18: The inquiry into the contentious recruitment process by the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) is gaining traction. The Commission has provided essential documents to the Crime Branch while simultaneously denying access to these records to candidates requesting information under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

The submitted documents encompass the question paper, answer key, candidate list, interview shortlist, and specifics regarding the on-screen evaluation method.

These records are part of the Crime Branch's investigation into alleged irregularities concerning the recruitment for the Chief Industry and Infrastructure Officer position within the State Planning Board.

This recruitment process has faced severe criticism after it was revealed that the PSC compiled the rank list without assessing responses to ten questions.

This revelation sparked widespread accusations of procedural errors and attempts to conceal vital information.

The situation escalated further when it was discovered that the candidate who achieved the top rank is affiliated with a Leftist organization.

This latest development follows a directive from the State Information Commission, which mandated the PSC to provide all requested records to candidates under the RTI Act within a week.

The Commission ruled that documents related to the selection process should not be withheld and ordered their release.

However, while cooperating with the Crime Branch investigation, the PSC has taken a different stance regarding candidates' requests.

In response to an RTI request from one of the complainants, the Commission indicated that it was not practical at this stage of the selection process to reveal the written exam and interview scores of candidates listed in the rank list.

Additionally, the PSC plans to contest the State Information Commission's ruling in a higher court, despite the order for disclosure.

This contradictory approach has raised new concerns about the Commission's transparency. Critics argue that while the PSC has willingly shared documents with investigative bodies, it continues to deny candidates access to records directly related to the selection process.

With the Crime Branch now possessing the evaluation records and other critical documents, investigators are expected to scrutinize whether there were any procedural breaches, manipulation in the grading process, or attempts to sway the rank list's creation.

The results of this investigation could significantly impact the credibility of Kerala's leading recruitment agency.