Explained | Why fresh concerns have emerged over KPSC’s Gazetted Probationer results

After candidates flagged issues in the shortlist, the government has sought a report over the alleged irregularities

The Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) has come under scrutiny after allegations of irregularities in the recently announced results of the main exams for 384 Gazetted Probationers posts under a 1:3 ratio came to light.

In a recent development, Chief Secretary (CS) Shalini Rajneesh has sought a report from the Commission over the alleged irregularities after candidates took to social media platforms sharing their concern.

Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara also responded to the matter. Speaking to ANI on Wednesday, March 4, he said, “There have been complaints against KPSC recruitment for several years now. If such instances are repeated, someone from the Commission should take responsibility. When the government is all set to fill 50,000 posts, such allegations should be verified and clarified."

What are students ’concerns?

At the centre of students’ concerns is the eligibility list of candidates selected for the posts of Gazetted Probationers 2023-24, which was released on Monday (March 2). Out of the total 5,760 candidates who appeared for the Mains examination, 1,152 were shortlisted for the personality test.

Now, students have highlighted that at least 10-12 candidates from the exam centre, many with consecutive registration numbers, have cleared for the next stage, alleging possible irregularities.

Screenshots of the merit list are circulating on social media platforms, shared by candidates who are now demanding that the result be withheld and a probe be conducted in a transparent manner.

What KPSC says

On the other hand, K Jyothi, secretary of KPSC has said that there were no irregularities in preparing the list of candidates, and that the allegations are “baseless.”

She has also confirmed that the Commission is internally verifying the allegations raised. "The main reason for suspicion was that at least 10 to 12 candidates were selected from a single examination room. When over 5,700 candidates wrote the main exams and 24 members in each room, it is common for 10 to 12 candidates to be selected from one room, and there is no corruption in it," she said.

She said that with over 5,700 candidates appearing and 24 candidates per examination room, it is not unusual for 10 to 12 candidates from a single room to qualify. She added that the Commission is internally verifying the concerns and has asked complainants to submit representations officially.

Background

To recall, this is not the first time students have raised concerns regarding irregularities in the exam.

In February 2024, the commission announced recruitment for 384 Gazetted Probationer posts. The preliminary exam held on August 27, 2024 faced criticism over translation errors in the question papers, leading to protests.  A re-exam was conducted on December 29, 2024, but candidates again reported translation issues and moved the court. The court permitted some petitioners to appear for the Mains exam, which was then conducted in May 2025.