Crime Branch to Probe Kerala PSC and KAS Exam Irregularities, Announces CM
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan announced on Wednesday that the state Crime Branch will launch a comprehensive investigation into alleged irregularities within the Kerala Public Service Commission (PSC) examinations and subsequent government appointments.
The decision, finalized during a Cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, follows a wave of complaints surrounding the state's premier recruitment body, including specific grievances regarding the Kerala Administrative Service (KAS) examinations.
"We are not questioning the working of the PSC or blaming it, but the allegations are serious and they need to be investigated," Satheesan told reporters during a press briefing.
The Crime Branch probe will look into multiple facets of the recruitment process, including the preparation of question papers, the awarding of marks, the conduct of interviews, and final appointment procedures
Transparent 100-Day Plan Launched
In a bid to boost administrative transparency, the Cabinet also approved a color-coded tracking system for developmental projects scheduled for the government’s first 100 days. Progress will be hosted on an open, public portal, allowing citizens and the media to monitor departmental milestones in real time.
Political Sparring Over Portfolios
The press conference quickly shifted into a sharp political volley, with Satheesan firing back at Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan. Vijayan had recently suggested that the Chief Minister’s decision to hold multiple portfolios could open the door to corruption. Satheesan fiercely rejected the insinuation, turning the spotlight back on his predecessor's tenure.
"How can he make such statements? Do we take charge of departments for corruption? He had charge of 29 departments when he was CM," Satheesan countered, arguing that such comments were unbecoming of the Leader of the Opposition.
The Chief Minister went on to question Vijayan’s past handling of the Information Technology portfolio. "Why did he keep charge of the IT Department? For whom? Whom was he trying to protect by doing that? Did he do that to gain some undue favours?" Satheesan asked.
Defending his own cabinet structure, Satheesan clarified that he accepted the Finance portfolio at the explicit request of his party and ministerial colleagues. Furthermore, he retained the Ports Department because major maritime projects remain a flagship dream for the current administration, requiring direct coordination from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).
