# Karnataka Probes Public Service Commission Irregularities

An investigative report has uncovered systemic irregularities and political influence within the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC), focusing on the appointment and tenure of Chairman Shivashankarappa Sahukar and the probe led by senior member Shakuntala Dundigoudar. The investigation highlights governance weaknesses, including politically influenced appointments, alleged corruption, and stalled accountability efforts, prompting potential reforms in state recruitment and procurement processes.

- The Government of Karnataka, including Chief Ministers Basavaraj Bommai and Siddaramaiah, is involved in addressing these governance issues within KPSC.
- Procurement and contracting professionals should be aware of increased scrutiny and possible reforms affecting recruitment and vendor engagement within Karnataka's public sector.
- Organizations working with or bidding for state government contracts in Karnataka may encounter revised compliance and oversight measures as a result of this investigation.
- This situation underscores the importance of transparent appointment processes and accountability mechanisms in public procurement to mitigate risks of corruption and political patronage.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Professional Services
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 21, 2026

### Government Entities
- Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC)
- Government of Karnataka
- Criminal Investigation Department (CID)

### Key Quotes
> By the end of February, CM Bommai issued an internal note to appoint Shakuntala. When it was informed that there was no vacancy... he decided to increase the strength of the KPSC.
> — Former KPSC member

> No rule allows rectifying an illegal appointment. The (then) BJP government should have removed him from the KPSC on that ground.
> — Former KPSC colleague

> We have been doing business for over 10 years and are wrongly linked with him. He has not favoured us in any contracts.
> — Shrikant Dundigoudar, Businessman

### Sources
- [How Express cracked a ‘black box’ and investigated Karnataka jobs scam](https://indianexpress.com/article/india/karnataka-job-scam-express-investigated-black-box-kpsc-government-recruiter-exam-10887029) - The Indian Express