Scrutiny on Tarun Gogoi's Role in Rakesh Paul's APSC Appointment

The Justice (Retd.) BK Sharma Commission report scrutinizes former Assam CM Tarun Gogoi's role in appointing Rakesh Paul to the APSC, uncovering widespread corruption and irregularities. The report highlights the lack of a proper selection process in Paul's appointment, subsequently leading to a cash-for-jobs scam.

In a significant development, the Justice (Retd.) BK Sharma Commission has highlighted serious irregularities in the appointment process of Rakesh Paul, former chairman of the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC). The inquiry scrutinizes the pivotal role played by former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, whose actions are under scrutiny.

Paul's tenure at APSC was marred by widespread corruption, including a notorious cash-for-jobs scam that led to dozens of arrests. The one-man commission revealed that Paul's appointment lacked a formal selection process, raising concerns about Gogoi's involvement.

The report accused Gogoi of bypassing standard procedures, resulting in the appointment of Paul, who was allegedly not qualified. The scandal has sparked a debate on the influence of political connections in public service appointments.

(With inputs from agencies.)