Kumaraswamy challenges Karnataka government to probe KPSC recruitment controversy
Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy denied involvement in the 2011 recruitment of 364 candidates through the Karnataka Public Service Commission.
Union Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Saturday challenged the Karnataka government to conduct an inquiry into his alleged role in the 2011 KPSC recruitment controversy. Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Kumaraswamy stated that he and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda held no personal stake in the selection of the 364 candidates, according to The New Indian Express.
The recruitment process faced scrutiny following a 2014 complaint by the daughter of an Assistant Commissioner, which led to a CID inquiry. Kumaraswamy said he was prepared to face any investigation regarding allegations of irregularities in the 2011 batch.
Defending the selected individuals, Kumaraswamy noted that many came from impoverished backgrounds and worked as labourers. He mentioned that the group included pregnant women and a visually challenged candidate who was selected as a tahsildar.
The Minister dismissed claims that appointments were secured through payments, calling such allegations unfair to deserving candidates. He also referred to a Supreme Court order on the matter and questioned efforts to restart the controversy.
When asked about reports of a possible raid at his residence, Kumaraswamy suggested the event might have been staged like a studio set. He declined to discuss the matter further.
Regarding political developments involving Rahul Gandhi, Kumaraswamy said such topics could be addressed after the Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations.