UP EOW Arrests Three in 2018 VDO Recruitment Scandal
The Uttar Pradesh Economic Offences Wing (EOW) arrested three individuals in connection with alleged irregularities in the 2018 village development officer (VDO) recruitment examination, according to an official statement from the agency. The arrests, part of “Operation Shikanja,” targeted suspects who had evaded capture for years, officials said.
Who Were the Arrested Individuals?
The three accused—Gangesh Kumar from Azamgarh, Vipin Chaudhary from Sant Kabir Nagar, and Sushil Kumar from Jaunpur—were apprehended on June 8, 2023, across different districts. Gangesh was detained at Sidhari police station, Vipin near a hospital in Khalilabad, and Sushil in his native village, the EOW reported.
What Was the Scope of the Scandal?
The case stems from the 2018 recruitment exam conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission (UPSSSC) for 1,953 posts, including VDOs and gram panchayat officers. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) managed the exam, but allegations of manipulation led to a government investigation. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed, later integrated into the EOW, after complaints of irregularities surfaced.
How Did the Fraud Unfold?
Investigators allege that 173 individuals, including officials, intermediaries, and candidates, colluded to tamper with OMR answer sheets, inflating scores for ineligible applicants in exchange for money. The EOW stated that this scheme deprived genuine candidates of fair selection. The recruitment process was eventually canceled, and a first information report (FIR) was filed under IPC sections related to forgery and criminal conspiracy.
What’s Next in the Investigation?
The EOW continues to trace absconding accused, with officials confirming that the probe remains active. The agency emphasized the involvement of a “well-organized network” spanning insiders and beneficiaries. A detailed analysis of witness statements, documents, and technical evidence has informed the ongoing efforts, according to the department.
For updates on the case, readers are advised to refer to official statements from the Uttar Pradesh Economic Offences Wing or trusted news outlets covering the investigation.