ED detains former KPSC chief Sahukar, KPSC member Geetha after fresh raid

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

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday conducted a second search at the residence of former Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) chairman Shivashankarappa S Sahukar and detained him for questioning in connection with alleged irregularities in the recruitment of 400 veterinary officers, sources said.

The ED has also detained KPSC member BV Geetha, who is suspected to be involved in the alleged recruitment, for further questioning and trial.

The latest action follows the custodial interrogation of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar Gangwar, a key accused in the case. During interrogation, Mr. Gangwar allegedly provided information to investigators about the alleged role of several KPSC members and others in the recruitment process.

ED officials reached Sahukar’s residence in Dollars Colony around noon and questioned him as they conducted a warrant-based search. Although sources said Sahukar had been detained, the agency did not officially confirm his arrest until late Tuesday evening. If he is formally arrested, he is likely to appear in court on Wednesday.

This is the second ED search of Sahukar’s premises. The first inspections were carried out on August 18.

Gangwar, who served as KPSC Controller of Examinations from February 2024 to March 2026, allegedly named Sahukar and KPSC members Shanta Hosmani, Elfredo D’Silva and BV Geetha during custodial interrogation.

The ED’s action is based on several FIRs registered by the Vidhana Soudha police in Bengaluru alleging irregularities in the final selection process for veterinary officers. The CID is separately investigating the alleged recruitment irregularities. Proceedings to set up a separate SIT are also before the Supreme Court following a challenge to the Karnataka High Court order.

The case pertains to allegations that as many as 29 candidates paid thousands of rupees to secure selection or placement after the veterinary officers recruitment examination held in January this year.

Among those named in the charges is Sooguresh Jaka, said to be a relative of Sahukar. Investigators are looking into allegations that Jaka scored 456.75 points despite failing two exams. He subsequently passed the examinations by compartmental examinations, although he reportedly had a low cumulative grade point average.

The ED has yet to officially release details of the seizure or the material found during Tuesday’s searches. Sources said the searches were based on prima facie evidence and statements recorded from suspects arrested in the case.

Separately, the Vidhana Soudha police had on July 10 registered an FIR against Suma S. Sahukar, daughter of Shivashankarappa Sahukar, alleging submission of a fake income certificate while applying for a government post in reservation category 3B. Sahukar was earlier questioned by the CID in connection with the recruitment probe.

Published – 06 Oct 2026 22:01 IST