SRINAGAR: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) conducted a raid on Thursday at the residence of a retired officer in Batengoo, Anantnag, in connection with the 2013 Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) recruitment scam.
The ACB had earlier booked several individuals, including department officials, technical committee members, and a private examination agency, after uncovering irregularities in the recruitment process. Investigations revealed that 109 candidates, who had scored below the cutoff, were fraudulently declared successful during the 2020 recruitment drive.
Key charges against those involved include forgery, criminal conspiracy, and cheating. Among the accused is a retired KAS officer who served as Chairman (Technical) and Assistant Divisional Officer (ADO) in the F&ES Department. During the raid, ACB officials reportedly seized electronic devices and recruitment-related materials.
The investigation also exposed instances of favouritism in the recruitment process. Those fraudulently selected included five brothers from Budgam district, relatives of F&ES officials, and individuals from the same localities.
The recruitment drive, initially advertised in 2013, was delayed for years amid allegations of malpractice. The ACB continues its probe to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and ensure accountability for those involved. (KNT)
