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2022 constable paper ‘leak’: Probe underway, says Sukhu as Opposition alleges inaction
In Himachal Pradesh, the 2022 constable recruitment paper leak case re-emerges as Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu says investigations are ongoing and data hints at illegal gains by some MLAs. The timeline includes 2022 events surrounding the paper leak, FIRs and CBI involvement, a 2024 CBI recommendation, and fresh political contention reported in May 2026.
Why It Matters
The timeline tracks a high-profile recruitment scam, ongoing investigations, and political accountability dynamics in Himachal Pradesh, with potential implications for governance and integrity in public hiring.
Timeline
5 Events
May 4, 2026: Current statements as probe resumes; opposition alleges inaction
May 4, 2026
The article reports that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said investigations are expanding beyond the current case, with data and reports being received and inputs suggesting that some MLAs may have earned money illegally. He promised action against everyone involved and noted that an SIT was formed soon after the government came to power. The opposition BJP has alleged the government failed to act on the CBI recommendations.
2024: CBI recommends action against five police officials
2024
In 2024, the CBI communicated its recommendations for action against five police officials linked to the case, including IPS officers associated with the printing committee and recruitment board, and a DSP tied to the initial investigation, for alleged negligence and mishandling of the case.
March 19, 2022: Paper allegedly stolen during printing in Ghaziabad; security lapses noted
March 19, 2022
According to the probe, the question paper for the 2022 constable exam was allegedly stolen on March 19, 2022 during printing at a private press in Ghaziabad. The investigation notes bypassed procedures, including the absence of a formal tender or work order for selecting the printing facility, and that the final draft was shared via WhatsApp for approval. It also highlights security lapses, such as no Himachal Pradesh Police personnel deployed to safeguard the papers and improper sealing/documentation of sensitive documents.
2022: FIRs registered; CBI takes over the case
2022
FIRs were registered in Kangra and Shimla districts, and the case was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following these FIRs.
2022: Recruitment exam held for 1,334 constable posts; later cancelled
2022
In 2022, a recruitment examination was conducted to fill 1,334 constable posts but was later cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. The case was subsequently handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation after FIRs were registered in Kangra and Shimla districts.