Kalaburagi, 05 September (H.S.): Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Saturday asserted that the investigation into alleged irregularities in recruitment examinations conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) would be pursued without interference, irrespective of the position or political affiliation of those involved.

Speaking to reporters in Kalaburagi, Kharge said the government would not permit evidence in the case to be weakened or suppressed. He maintained that anyone found responsible would face action, whether the person was a senior bureaucrat, police officer or political leader belonging to the ruling Congress or the opposition BJP.

His remarks came against the backdrop of the arrest of an IAS officer in connection with alleged irregularities in a KPSC recruitment examination. Kharge said the action was taken under legislation introduced by the Congress government to curb malpractices in recruitment examinations.

He recalled that while in the opposition, he had introduced a private member’s Bill during a legislature session in Belagavi seeking stringent measures against examination malpractice. After the Congress came to power, legislation was enacted and draft rules have since been published.

Kharge said nearly 35 lakh candidates appear for various recruitment examinations in Karnataka and a large proportion come from middle-class and economically weaker families, including students educated in government institutions. Protecting their interests was therefore a responsibility of the government, he said.

On the declaration of drought in only five taluks of Kalaburagi district, Kharge said the State was required to follow norms prescribed under National Disaster Response Fund guidelines. He accused BJP leaders of targeting the State government instead of raising the issue with the Centre.

Kharge also said a high-level committee headed by ADGP (Law and Order) R. Hitendra had submitted recommendations on prison administration, security and reforms. The proposals would be discussed with Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar before further action is taken.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman