Chhattisgarh Shiksha Karmi Recruitment Scam: Three Arrested After 16 Years, 172 Appointments Made for 150 Posts

Dhamtari: Police have finally taken major action in the infamous Shiksha Karmi Recruitment Scam of 2007 in Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh. On Wednesday, Magarlod police arrested three accused and presented them in the District Sessions Court, where the court remanded them to 15-day police remand. This action, following a lengthy investigation, has created panic among other accused involved in the scam. Police have clarified that more arrests will be made.

This case relates to the 2007 Shiksha Karmi Class-3 recruitment under the Magarlod District Panchayat, where 172 people were appointed against a sanctioned 150 posts. Based on complaints, two FIRs were registered at the Magarlod police station in 2011. The investigation revealed that fake degrees, experience, and sports certificates were used to secure the appointments. Furthermore, allegations that the selection and screening committees favored their relatives were also proven.

Following a complaint by RTI activist Krishna Kumar, the investigation into the case was handed over to the Raipur District Panchayat (CID). During the investigation, former District Panchayat CEO Kamalkant Tiwari was arrested in Bhilai in July 2022. Approximately 94 teachers were named in the case, many of whom were terminated. The court convicted 10 teachers and sentenced them to five years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of 25,000 rupees each. Additional imprisonment was also provided for non-payment of the fine. The main accused, Kamalkant Tiwari, has filed an appeal in the High Court.

In the latest action, the police arrested the then-selection committee member and District Vice President Komal Yadav, teachers Ishu Sahu, and Sitaram Kurre. Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Manishanker Chandra stated that several suspects were summoned during the investigation, and three were arrested after sufficient evidence was found against them. Another suspect, who is unwell, will be questioned later.

The ASP stated that six arrests have been made so far in this case, and 172 teachers are under investigation. Eleven members of the selection committee will also be questioned, and notices are being issued to all. He added that strict action will be taken against those against whom evidence is found. Regarding this action, which took place after 16 years, the police stated that the investigation into the case was ongoing in various departments and locations. Arrests were made possible only after documents were obtained from other departments and evidence was established.