Bhubaneswar, Oct 15: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation into the Odisha Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment scam is becoming increasingly complex, with investigators examining alleged undisclosed dealings between Silicon Techlab Private Limited (STPL) and Patnaik Steel International Limited (PSIL).

The probe is focusing on suspected illegal financial transactions worth crores of rupees allegedly linked to the recruitment scam and the possible involvement of PSIL.

According to the investigation, evidence has reportedly emerged pointing to the alleged involvement of STPL director Suresh Chandra Nayak and Panchsoft Technology director Shankar Pushti in the recruitment irregularities.

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The ED has also examined a share acquisition deal dated August 3, 2023, under which PSIL director Sameer Rath and his wife, Shashwati Mishra, reportedly acquired a majority stake in Silicon Techlab. The share purchase agreement was allegedly not filed with the Registrar of Companies by either company.

Despite the reported acquisition, Silicon Techlab director Suresh Chandra Nayak continued to head the company. He allegedly took responsibility for conducting the SI recruitment examination in collaboration with ITI Limited without the required authorisation.

Investigators suspect that Sameer Rath and his wife did not inform ITI Limited about Nayak’s alleged unauthorised activities. The alleged arrangement is also being examined in connection with the suspected leakage of SI examination question papers.

As part of the investigation, the ED’s Bhubaneswar unit conducted searches at 12 locations across Odisha and West Bengal on October 9, 10 and 12. Investigators reportedly seized documents and other material evidence during the searches.

The agency is continuing to examine the financial transactions, corporate arrangements and alleged links between the companies to establish the extent of their involvement in the SI recruitment scam.