Allegations of examination malpractice were reported during an Army Group C recruitment test held at the 515 Army Base Workshop on Monday, prompting police action and an official inquiry.

The examination was conducted for direct recruitment to Civil Defence Employee Group C posts, including Lower Division Clerk (LDC) positions. According to officials, the written test was held between 10 am and 12 noon.

Authorities noticed suspicious behaviour among a group of candidates during the examination. A formal complaint was subsequently filed by Jyotirlingam, Colonel and Security Officer attached to the Commandant and Managing Director of the workshop. Based on the complaint, the Halasuru Police registered a First Information Report (FIR).

Preliminary findings indicate that 18 candidates allegedly used electronic devices to copy answers during the test. Officials conducting checks inside the examination hall reportedly detected the use of electronic gadgets, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the recruitment process.

The candidates identified in the case include Surender, Sandeep Bin Rajesh, Monty, Ajay Kumar, Anuj, Rahul, Rajendra, Sumeet, Aman, Ankit, Yogesh, Vikas, Ankit, Aman Reddy, Rajat, Vinay, Ankit and Aman Kumar.

In addition to devices found inside the examination hall, officials recovered electronic equipment from the bags of two candidates, identified as Aman and Rajat. The presence of such devices within the examination premises violates examination rules.

Following the complaint, all 18 candidates were brought to the police station for questioning. Mobile phones and other electronic devices suspected to have been used during the exam were seized as part of the investigation.

Police sources said the probe is focused on how the devices were brought into the examination centre and whether there was any organised attempt to manipulate the recruitment process. Investigators are also examining the possibility of external assistance or coordination.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the examination results will be cancelled or if a fresh test will be conducted. Officials stated that further action will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation.

The incident has once again raised concerns over examination security and the growing misuse of electronic devices in competitive recruitment processes. Police said further details will be shared as the investigation progresses.