Nagpur, India- Commissioner of Police Dr Ravinder Singal took decisive action on Thursday by suspending three police officers, including a Sub Inspector, for allegedly allowing candidates to cheat during a recently written test for constable recruitment. The suspended officers are Sub Inspector Sanjay Chauhan, Head Constable Santosh Fakunde, and Constable Siddharth Lokhande.

The incident occurred on July 28, 2024, during the written examination held at Yashwantrao Chavan College of Engineering and Datta Meghe Medical College in Wanadongri. Chauhan, who was attached to the Special Branch, was assigned invigilation duties, with Fakunde and Lokhande, posted at Gittikhadan and Jaripatka Police Stations respectively, assisting him.

According to reports, during the exam, candidates were seen openly discussing questions and writing answers without intervention from the officers present. The incident raised red flags when complaints were received by senior police officials, prompting a review of CCTV footage from the examination halls. The footage reportedly revealed suspicious behaviour by the three officers, leading to an internal investigation.

Based on the findings, Commissioner Dr Singal ordered the immediate suspension of Chauhan, Fakunde, and Lokhande for three months, pending a thorough inquiry. This action was taken despite prior instructions given by senior officials, emphasizing the need for strict vigilance to prevent any form of malpractice during the exam. The officers' apparent disregard for these directives has raised concerns about the integrity of the ongoing recruitment process.

The investigation is still underway, and additional disciplinary actions may be taken based on further findings.