JPSC Exam Scam: Former Chairman L Khiangte Arrested by CID in Recruitment Case

New Delhi: The investigation into the alleged irregularities in the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) 14th Civil Services Examination has intensified, with the Jharkhand Crime Investigation Department (CID) arresting former JPSC Chairman L Khiangte. Officials are probing the appointment of a private examination agency, alleged financial transactions, and possible procedural violations in one of the state's biggest recruitment controversies.

Khiangte, a former Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, resigned as JPSC chairman on July 22, 2026, stating that his resignation would facilitate a fair and impartial investigation into the allegations.

Why Has the Former JPSC Chairman Been Arrested?

According to the CID, the investigation revolves around the appointment of TDPL, a Noida-based private company, to conduct the JPSC Civil Services Examination.

Investigators are examining whether the company, which was allegedly blacklisted, was awarded the contract without following the prescribed procurement process. Officials are also looking into whether mandatory tender procedures and transparency norms were bypassed during the selection.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not yet announced any final conclusions.

Who Are the Accused in the JPSC Recruitment Case?

The CID has named several individuals in connection with the alleged recruitment scam, including:

• L Khiangte, former JPSC Chairman
• Abhay Tiwari, Marketing Manager at TDPL
• Shweta Gupta, JPSC Deputy Controller of Examinations
• Satyapal Singh, TDPL Director
• Rambir Singh, TDPL Director
• Sonu Kumar, JPSC employee
• Manoj Tirkey, JPSC employee
• Awadh, TDPL employee

Several accused have already been arrested as the investigation continues.

CID Probing Alleged Financial Transactions

The CID alleges that Abhay Tiwari, considered by investigators to be a key figure in the case, made substantial advance payments amounting to several crores to the then JPSC chairman. Investigators are also examining allegations that a 20% commission on earnings generated through the arrangement had been agreed upon.

Officials are separately investigating claims that Tiwari received Rs 1.80 crore from JSSC Secretary Sudhir Gupta in connection with the JSSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) examination, allegedly under an agreement involving a 25% share of total earnings.

Authorities have clarified that these allegations remain under investigation, and no final findings have been announced.

Abhay Tiwari's Examination Record Under Scanner

Investigators have also scrutinised Abhay Tiwari's record in competitive examinations.

Currently serving as a Block Supply Officer in Godda district, Tiwari reportedly cleared multiple state and central government recruitment examinations, including:

• JSSC PGT English (Topper)
• Police Sub-Inspector Examination (2018)
• Navy SAR Examination
• BARC Assistant Recruitment
• CRPF Head Constable Recruitment
• IRB Constable Examination
• NCL Recruitment
• Multiple JPSC and JSSC examinations, including CGL, PGT, ACF and FRO

The CID is investigating allegations that he used his network to facilitate government jobs in exchange for money. Officials are also examining the possible involvement of family members and associates.

Deputy Controller Shweta Gupta Under Investigation

The role of Shweta Gupta, former Deputy Controller of Examinations at JPSC, is also under scrutiny.

Officials said Gupta continued handling key examination responsibilities despite being transferred to the Food and Supply Department in May 2026.

During questioning, Gupta reportedly stated that the examination work was awarded to TDPL on a nomination basis without any tender process. Investigators are now verifying whether procurement rules were violated while awarding the contract.

TDPL Directors Also Arrested

The CID has arrested Satyapal Singh and Rambir Singh, directors of TDPL, which managed recruitment examinations for various government agencies.

Investigators allege the company was involved in examination-related irregularities, including alleged bribery, financial misconduct and manipulation of the recruitment process.

The allegations remain under investigation.

Investigation Continues

The JPSC recruitment controversy has triggered protests in Ranchi, with candidates demanding transparency and accountability in the recruitment process.

Officials have indicated that further arrests and additional charges may follow depending on the evidence collected during the ongoing investigation. The CID continues to examine financial records, procurement procedures and the role of various officials linked to the 14th JPSC Civil Services Examination.