Karnataka High Court rejects bail plea of ex-KPSC chief

The high court on Monday rejected the anticipatory bail plea filed by former chairman of Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) HN Krishna, who is facing allegations of nepotism in appointments.

Apprehending arrest, Krishna had earlier applied for anticipatory bail in a fast track court. The plea was rejected as the investigation was yet to be completed.

Justice H Billappa, while rejecting the anticipatory bail, observed that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) inquiry had revealed racial discrimination, fabrication of documents, fraud and criminal intimidation, among others, in various stages of selection process of gazetted probationers (Group A and B posts) during 1998, 1999 and 2004.

The judge further observed that the matter was of public importance and thorough investigation was required to reveal “many more things” during Krishna’s tenure.

The court, however, granted anticipatory bail to YB Archana, SM Asha Parveen and Salma Firdos who are accused of producing fake caste certificates to get government jobs. The bail was granted on conditions that they furnish a personal bond along with sureties. In case of their arrest, the three are required to cooperate with the investigation and not leave the country.

CID had filed a complaint against Krishna on August 11, accusing him of irregularities in the appointments of Group A and B posts of KPSC during his tenure.