Thiruvananthapuram, 24 July (H.S.):The investigation into the alleged irregularities in a Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) recruitment examination has widened, with the probe now extending to senior officials involved in the question paper evaluation process. Investigators have recorded the statements of three key officials as part of the ongoing inquiry and have begun examining possible lapses in the assessment of candidates' answer scripts.

The officials whose statements were recorded include a Deputy Secretary, a Junior Superintendent and a System Analyst, all of whom were associated with different stages of the evaluation process. Their testimonies are expected to help investigators determine whether procedural violations or administrative lapses contributed to the alleged irregularities.

The probe is now focusing on the evaluation methodology adopted for the examination, particularly allegations that questions carrying a total of 10 marks were excluded during the assessment. Investigators are examining how such omissions occurred and whether they affected the overall ranking and selection of candidates.

Authorities are also scrutinising the evaluation of descriptive answer papers to determine whether the assessment was carried out in accordance with prescribed guidelines. The inquiry will examine whether there were shortcomings in the scrutiny of written responses and whether evaluators exercised discretionary powers in an arbitrary or biased manner.

Another key aspect of the investigation is whether any element of favouritism or preferential treatment influenced the marking process. Officials are expected to analyse evaluation records, internal communications and procedural documents to establish if assessment norms were uniformly followed or if deviations benefited particular candidates.

The inquiry forms part of a broader effort to establish accountability in the recruitment process and restore confidence in the PSC examination system. Depending on the findings, further questioning of officials and additional departmental action are likely as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged irregularities in the examination and the evaluation process.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman