Chhattisgarh High Court Denies Bail to Former CGPSC Chairman in Recruitment Scam
The Chhattisgarh High Court has firmly dismissed the second bail application of Taman Singh Sonwani, the former chairman of the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission (CGPSC), in connection with the high-profile 2021 recruitment scam. This decision underscores the judiciary's stern stance on corruption in public examinations.
Court's Observations on Serious Allegations
Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, while rejecting the plea, made critical observations regarding the gravity of the charges. The court noted that the allegations involve leaking examination papers to favor family members, an act that seriously undermines the future of lakhs of aspirants across the state. Justice Guru emphasized that such misconduct erodes public trust in competitive examinations, which are pivotal for career opportunities.
The court stated, "The act of leaking examination papers undermines the integrity of competitive examinations and adversely affects the future of numerous aspirants." This remark highlights the broader societal impact of the scam, beyond just legal implications.
Reasons for Bail Rejection
In its ruling, the court cited multiple factors for denying bail:
- Seriousness of Charges: The allegations are deemed severe, involving corruption at a high level that compromises educational and employment systems.
- Ongoing Investigation: While the probe into Sonwani is complete, investigations into 10 other candidates are still underway, necessitating his continued custody to prevent interference.
- Previous Rejection: Sonwani's first bail application was rejected in April 2025, indicating a consistent judicial approach to the case.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is handling the case, opposed the bail application, describing Sonwani as the "kingpin" of the scam. The agency informed the court that his release could hamper the ongoing investigations into other involved persons.
Background of the 2021 Recruitment Scam
The 2021 CGPSC recruitment scam has been a major controversy in Chhattisgarh, involving allegations of paper leaks and unfair practices in public service examinations. Sonwani, as the former chairman, is accused of orchestrating these leaks to benefit close associates and family members, thereby depriving genuine candidates of fair opportunities.
This case has drawn significant public attention, with many calling for stringent actions to restore faith in the state's recruitment processes. The high court's decision is seen as a step towards accountability and justice for the affected aspirants.
The dismissal of the bail plea reinforces the message that corruption in public institutions will not be tolerated, and those in positions of power must be held to the highest standards of integrity. As the legal proceedings continue, stakeholders await further developments in this landmark case.
