Cash-for-jobs scam unearthed in Tamil Nadu: Engineer, officer posts sold for ₹35 lakh each

The ED alleged that around 2,538 candidates secured posts — from engineers to officers — through large-scale bribery involving politicians and senior officials. The agency has asked the state police to register an FIR and has handed over key evidence, including documents, photos, and WhatsApp chats.

Scam linked to August 2025 recruitments

The fraudulent appointments were part of the recruitment drive held in August 2025, where appointment letters were distributed by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on August 6. The ED stumbled upon the scam while probing a bank fraud case initially investigated by the CBI in April.

Bribes routed through hawala

The ED shared details of around 150 candidates who allegedly paid hefty bribes for job placements. The money was collected in cash and later funneled through hawala networks into various accounts. Investigators also found evidence of fake merit lists being prepared to ensure the selection of preferred candidates.

The exam, conducted by Anna University, was allegedly influenced by certain political figures and their associates who manipulated results to pass ineligible candidates.

Recruitment timelin

The recruitment process had started in January 2024, attracting over 1.12 lakh applicants for posts such as Assistant Engineer, Junior Engineer, Town Planning Officer, and Sanitary Inspector. The final appointment letters were issued in August 2025.

ED’s legal move

The ED has shared all relevant evidence with Tamil Nadu Police under Section 66 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) — a provision that allows the agency to transfer evidence to another primary investigating authority. Once the police file an FIR, the ED is expected to initiate a formal money-laundering case based on the same findings