By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The physical test for the Bihar constable recruitment examination, ongoing in Patna since 9th December, has uncovered a major fraud. A total of 33 candidates have been arrested so far for using impersonators during the written examination.
During interrogation, the arrested candidates revealed that over 200 individuals had employed “scholars” to sit their written exams on their behalf. Deals were reportedly struck with each candidate for amounts ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh. Advance payments of ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh were made before the exams, with the remaining amount to be paid after the written test. Brokers allegedly demanded ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh to facilitate both the written and physical tests.
Further questioning revealed that some candidates had paid the full amount after their written exam results were declared. Others had paid only 50-60% of the agreed amount but were caught during the physical tests. Most of those arrested were detected due to mismatched thumb impressions during biometric attendance, while others were identified due to facial discrepancies captured on videography.
On 4th January, the final day of the fourth phase of physical testing, four candidates were apprehended by Gardanibagh Police in Patna. These candidates failed biometric verification and, upon questioning, admitted to hiring impersonators for their written exams.
The Gardanibagh Police have since arrested 33 individuals in connection with the scam, all of whom have been sent to jail. Investigations continue to determine the extent of the fraud and the involvement of brokers in this elaborate scheme.
This incident has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the constable recruitment process and the need for stricter verification measures.
