OMR Sheets to Be Destroyed: Controversy Erupts Over Recruitment Exam Records in Rajasthan

Jaipur: The political storm over OMR sheet irregularities in Rajasthan’s government recruitment exams is intensifying. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has demanded a full investigation into the alleged manipulation of OMR sheets. Meanwhile, Alok Raj, Chairman of the Rajasthan Staff Selection Board, has sparked controversy by announcing that the process to destroy old OMR sheets has already begun.

This announcement has raised serious questions: if the sheets are destroyed, how will investigations uncover any irregularities?

Gehlot Questions Board’s Integrity

Ashok Gehlot has accused the current BJP-led government of politicizing the paper leak case. According to Gehlot, revelations about OMR sheet manipulation in the Rajasthan Staff Selection Board have exposed severe weaknesses in the system. Reports from the Special Operations Group (SOG) indicate that this alleged misconduct started under the previous BJP government in 2018 and continued until 2026, highlighting a worrying trend in recruitment transparency.

Alok Raj Defends OMR Sheet Destruction

In an interview, Alok Raj clarified that the board is following established rules. “There are regulations regarding OMR sheets,” he said. “Sheets can be destroyed after two years. We have documented the records as much as possible, and the process of destruction has begun. We are fully aware of what must be done and are acting according to the rules.”

Political Appointment Under Scrutiny

Alok Raj also admitted that his appointment as board chairman was political. He was appointed in August 2023, just before the December 2023 elections. Gehlot personally asked him if he could handle the responsibilities, to which Raj replied affirmatively. Addressing Gehlot’s recent social media queries about irregularities in the last two years, Raj stated that the matter would be clarified when asked officially.

The ongoing controversy has put the spotlight on the board’s transparency, raising concerns over the accountability of recruitment processes in Rajasthan. With OMR sheets set to be destroyed, the political and administrative debate over the integrity of past exams is expected to escalate further.