KPSC ‘scam’: CID arrests key middleman, allegedly linked to BJP

Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) office in Bengaluru. | Photo credit: File photo

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) probing the alleged scam in the recruitment of veterinary officers by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) on Monday arrested Basavaraj Kannale, allegedly a local BJP leader from Bhalki in Bidar district. He is said to be a key intermediary and one of the main representatives of the alleged fraud. He was arrested from Delhi, sources said. The arrest came at a time when Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy targeted Home Minister Priyank Kharge over the alleged KPSC scam, adding another political twist to the case. The Congress has already targeted the BJP over the alleged scam, pointing out that the KPSC “fraud” in the docket was appointed during BJP’s tenure.

The CID on Sunday arrested IAS officer Gnanendra Kumar Gangwar, former controller of examination, KPSC, in connection with the scam. Both were produced before the city court on Monday and were remanded in custody for 10 days.

Kannale, said to be associated with the BJP, has been appointed as a member of the Tumkur University Syndicate. He was appointed as a member of the Syndicate in August 2025, sources said. He is said to have played a key role as a mediator between candidates and influential people in the recruitment process.

Meanwhile, CID officials on Monday conducted searches at two houses linked to Kannale in Bhalki taluk of Bidar district. Searches were conducted at his residence in Donagapur village and another house in Lecturer’s Colony in Bhalki town.

Kannale is said to have developed close contacts with several political leaders after he returned to Bengaluru after a stint in Delhi for UPSC coaching. Investigators are looking into allegations that he subsequently acted as an intermediary between job seekers and influential people, allegedly helping candidates secure government posts.

The CID is also probing financial transactions and assets worth crores of rupees allegedly related to recruitment irregularities.

Published – 31 Aug 2026 19:08 IST