CBI Intensifies Action In CGPSC 'Scam' Probe, More Raids In Chhattisgarh Unlocks Links To Middlemen

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Friday made a major move in the probe of the alleged CGPSC recruitment scam. It conducted raids at five different locations in Raipur and Mahasamund on Friday, April 18. The central agency conducted raids at three locations in Raipur and two places in Mahasamund. All these locations were allegedly linked to middlemen and 'paper solvers' involved in the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission recruitment scam.

Key Documents Seized During Raid

The CBI also identified the roles and involvement of the suspects. The case pertains to the alleged malpractices and irregularities in the examinations conducted by the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission between 2020 and 2022. The case revolves around the allegation that a few candidates were recruited to the posts of Deputy Collector, DSP, and others, without merit.

Earlier, the case was being handled by the Chhattisgarh Police. However, it was later handed over to the CBI after requests from the Chhattisgarh government.

Arrests So Far In CGPSC Recruitment Scam

So far, several high-profile arrests have been made in this case. On November 18, 2024, CBI arrested the then chairman of the CGPSC, Taman Singh Sonwani, and the Director of Shri Bajrang Power and Ispat limited, Shravan Kumar Goyal. Later on January 10, 2025, deputy collector Nitesh Sonwani (nephew of Taman Singh Sonwani), was arrested along with the then deputy exam controller of CGPSC Lalit Ganvir.

Subsequently, on January 12, CBI arrested three more suspects — Shashank Goyal and Bhumika Katiyar (both deputy collectors), and Sahil Sonwani, a Deputy SP.

On January 16, 2025, the CBI filed a chargesheet at a Raipur court. The chargesheet named the seven accused — Taman Singh Sonwani, Shravan Kumar Goyal, Shashank Goyal, Bhoomika Katiyar, Nitesh Sonwani, Sahil Sonwani, and Lalit Ganvir.

The CBI stressed that the investigation is not yet over. The agency said the roles and involvement of all suspects are under its lens.

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