HAVERI : Anger is mounting among govt job aspirants after allegations of malpractice in the village administrative officer (VAO) recruitment examination cast serious doubts on the integrity of the selection process. Candidates who spent months preparing for the test are now demanding a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe to uncover the network behind the suspected scam.
The controversy intensified after Shankar Bannur of Hanagal, who appeared for the VAO examination at Mamaledesai Composite PU College in Shiggaon on Oct 4, was accused of using a mobile phone inside the examination hall. Bannur reportedly scored 151 marks and emerged as the state topper. Fresh allegations have also surfaced from Dharwad, where candidates claim nearly 30 examinees secured high scores despite leaving their OMR answer sheets blank. One candidate, Shivanand Patil, allegedly answered only 11 questions but scored more than 80 marks.
He was later arrested by police and remanded to judicial custody.
Four officials posted at Mamaledesai Composite PU College on the day of the examination may face disciplinary action. They include the invigilator, centre superintendent, dress-code officer and room supervisor. The inquiry is expected to determine whether there was negligence in frisking, supervision or enforcement of examination rules. KEA tightens exam system