Assam Cash-for-Jobs Scandal: Punishment Verdict Awaited for Convicted Individuals

The quantum of punishment for 32 individuals, convicted in the cash-for-jobs case related to agricultural development officer appointments in Assam, will be delivered on August 29. The case involves former APSC chairman Rakesh Paul and is based on a complaint of mark tampering for financial transactions. Further investigations continue.

The special court announced that the quantum of punishment for 32 individuals convicted in the cash-for-jobs case concerning the appointment of agricultural development officers (ADO) in Assam will be declared on August 29.

Special Judge Dipankar Thakuria, after hearing the convicts, reserved his judgment on the punishment's severity.

Among the convicted is former Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) chairman Rakesh Paul. The case, filed at Bhangagarh police station under the Prevention of Corruption Act in 2017, saw Judge Thakuria acquit 11 due to lack of evidence while one member turned approver.

The investigation stemmed from a complaint by a failed candidate alleging mark manipulation for financial gain.

The Assam Police has detained nearly 70 individuals, including Rakesh Paul, for similar irregularities since 2016, with further probes ongoing under a Special Investigative Team (SIT).