Those arrested include Virendra Jatav, Assistant Statistics Officer at the Commissioner, Land Records Office, Raipur, and Hemant Kaushik, Assistant Statistics Officer at the Deputy Commissioner, Land Records Office.
Raids Across Seven Districts
On November 19, a joint ACB–EOW team conducted simultaneous raids at 19 locations across Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Gariaband, Ambikapur, Mahasamund, and Jagdalpur. The action was based on complaints of irregular appointments and disproportionate assets. Officials said that evidence collected during the raids pointed directly to the involvement of the two arrested officers.
According to the agency, both officers conspired to leak the RI exam paper and manipulated the selection process for personal gain and to benefit senior officials. The 2024 patwari-to-RI promotion exam had been under scrutiny since widespread irregularities were reported.
Digital Evidence and Questionable Selections
Search teams found digital records, financial documents, agreements, and other material indicating illegal transactions. Properties and assets far exceeding income limits were also discovered. Cash, jewellery, and electronic devices were seized from several locations.
Investigators suspect manipulation of marks, undue influence, and the use of proxies to help candidates during the exam. Notably, while only 13 candidates were supposed to be selected, the number was later raised to 22 despite committee objections.
Senior Officers Also Under Scanner
Raids were also conducted at the residence of Bemetara District Panchayat CEO Premalata Padmakar and at the Bilaspur home of RI Abhishek Singh, currently posted in Surajpur. Documents linked to the printing and distribution of exam papers were seized.
The investigation continues, and more arrests are likely as the agency analyzes seized records and financial trails.
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