Bengaluru, August 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Sunday searched the Bengaluru residence of IAS officer Gyanendra Kumar as part of its investigation into alleged irregularities in recruitment conducted by the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC).
The probe focuses on alleged irregularities in the recruitment of veterinary officers, including allegations that candidates were asked to pay bribes ranging from Rs 70 lakh to Rs 80 lakh to secure appointments.
Kumar, a 2016-batch IAS officer, was associated with the KPSC examination process and served as its Controller of Examinations until March. He was also involved in the Karnataka Administrative Service (KAS) examination and the recruitment process for veterinary officers.
ED officials arrived at Kumar’s apartment complex in three Innova vehicles accompanied by CRPF personnel. The complex was initially locked, and security personnel reportedly denied the officials entry, saying they had no instructions to allow access.
The security staff subsequently contacted Kumar and permitted the ED team to enter. However, the officer’s residence was locked. Officials called a locksmith to open the premises, with the process reportedly videographed.
ED and CRPF personnel underwent security checks before entering the residence. The officials reportedly spent nearly three hours gaining access to the house.
Kumar was not present and his phone was reportedly switched off. He had earlier left Bengaluru from the airport, prompting speculation about his whereabouts. Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge later said the officer had travelled to Uttar Pradesh as his father was unwell.
The latest search comes three days after the ED searched the residence of former KPSC chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar and other premises in connection with the alleged recruitment irregularities.
The agency has conducted searches at multiple locations across Karnataka, including premises linked to the former KPSC chairman and veterinary officers, as it examines documents and other material related to the case.
The searches are reportedly the first ED action at the KPSC in connection with a recruitment-related investigation.
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