The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its investigation into the recruitment scam at the Belagavi Cantonment Board. For the past 14 days, officers have been thoroughly examining recruitment documents and questioning staff. The inquiry is expected to continue for at least four more days, with CBI personnel still stationed in Belagavi to scrutinize each recruited candidate.
Sources indicate that the CBI is summoning and interrogating all individuals appointed under the 2022–23 recruitment cycle. The ongoing visits and repeated questioning have stirred anxiety within the Cantonment Board office, as staff grow increasingly concerned about the widening scope of the investigation.
A team of four CBI officers — three men and one woman — has been present in Belagavi since May 6. This marks the second phase of inquiry within the last two months. While the initial focus was on verifying recruitment records, the probe has now advanced to direct questioning of the selected candidates to identify irregularities in the selection process.
Timeline and Background of the Scam
The recruitment scam surfaced in 2023 after allegations of malpractice emerged during the hiring for lower-tier roles such as coolie, mazdoor, dai, mali, and chowkidar. A preliminary inquiry led to an FIR being registered by the CBI in Bengaluru nearly 18 months ago, naming 19 individuals, including board staff and selected candidates.
Many of the accused were later granted bail. The agency had earlier questioned 14 employees and five board officials, but has now resumed interrogations, calling in 29 individuals for a new round of questioning under the extended probe.
Key Focus Areas of the Inquiry
The CBI is examining specifics related to the written tests and interviews conducted during the disputed recruitment drive. Investigators are inquiring about the distribution of question papers, shortlisting methods, and potential financial dealings that may have influenced the selection.
The probe is expected to shift to Bengaluru once the Belagavi phase concludes, likely by May 24.
With the deepening investigation, the CBI’s ongoing efforts reflect its determination to uncover the complete extent of the alleged corruption in the Cantonment Board’s hiring process.
