Punjab Pharmacy Officer Appointments Halted Over Cheating Scandal
By Business Desk
Punjab and Haryana High Court halts 454 pharmacy officer appointments due to a massive cheating racket. Recruitment exam integrity questioned.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has put a hold on the appointment process for 454 pharmacy officers in Punjab. This decision, effective until September 17, comes after allegations of a sophisticated cheating racket compromising the recruitment examination.
A petition filed by Keshav Kamboj and others seeks the outright cancellation of the written exam, which was conducted on July 19. They argue that the integrity of the selection process, initiated by Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, has been severely undermined.
The Scale of the Scandal
The recruitment drive aimed to fill 454 posts for pharmacy officers. Approximately 7,000 candidates participated in the examination across 25 centers.
The illicit operation charged candidates between Rs 3.5 lakh and Rs 13 lakh to guarantee passing marks. This significant financial incentive highlights the organized nature of the cheating.
Police Uncover Sophisticated Racket
Punjab Police previously dismantled an inter-state cheating racket directly linked to the July 19 examination. Authorities made multiple arrests, including both conspirators and candidates involved in the scheme.
During the investigation, police confiscated 27 wireless cheating devices, revealing the advanced methods used to manipulate the exam. This swift action brought the illicit operation to light.
Wider Implications and Political Repercussions
An earlier interim order on July 28 had already made the selection process subject to the outcome of the ongoing petition. The High Court’s latest directive ensures no appointments will proceed until the next hearing on September 17.
Opposition parties have strongly criticized the AAP government following these revelations. They are demanding the resignations of both the Education and Health Ministers over the incident, underscoring the political fallout from the scandal.
What This Means for Candidates
For the thousands of candidates who appeared for the exam, this stay means continued uncertainty regarding their future employment. The court’s decision on September 17 will be crucial in determining the path forward for these much-needed public health positions.