‘Rs 70 lakh to be paid’: Seized note forces Karnataka PSC to scrap selection list

‘Pending payment’ sheet triggers probe

According to an officer from the CID’s Special Investigation Team (SIT), investigators seized loose sheets of paper during a search at the residence of T Prakash, a retired in-charge assistant secretary at the KPSC.

One seized sheet contained the phrase “Barabekagiruvudu” (meaning “yet to be paid”) under an MVI heading. The document listed eight names alongside a pending sum of Rs 70 lakh, accompanied by signatures or specific identification marks. The officer noted that several names appearing on the list matched candidates selected for MVI posts in April 2025.

“We have been investigating people who have worked at KPSC for an extended period. Our focus has primarily been on those involved in preparing the question papers, uploading the answer sheets, and creating the selection lists,” said the officer.

Investigators also suspect a middleman, Basavaraj Kannale, who allegedly demanded money from candidates in exchange for appointments.

Prakash, 61, retired from service on May 31 last year. He has since approached the court seeking relief from the ongoing investigation. On August 28, the public prosecutor informed the court that the state could not immediately provide a detailed status update on the investigation. As the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is concurrently investigating the matter, the court directed that a report be sought from the central agency.