The Andhra Pradesh High Court has summoned Chief Secretary K. S. Vijayanand over the government’s delay in implementing orders related to the 2018 Group 1 examination irregularities case. The Court had earlier directed that officers appointed through the 2018 exam be transferred to non-priority posts pending investigation. Following the Court’s displeasure, the government has now issued transfer orders.

What Is the Issue?

Allegations of irregularities surfaced in the 2018 Group 1 examination in Andhra Pradesh.
Some candidates approached the High Court alleging evaluation lapses.
The Court ordered preservation of answer sheets.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted to probe the matter.

Despite earlier court directions to shift selected officers to non-priority posts during the investigation, the government reportedly failed to implement the order promptly.

High Court’s Action

During the latest hearing:

The Andhra Pradesh High Court expressed dissatisfaction.
Chief Secretary K. S. Vijayanand was summoned.
The Court reportedly reprimanded officials for non-compliance.

The directive required temporary administrative transfers until the SIT completes its probe.

Government’s Immediate Response

In response to the Court’s strong remarks:

Orders were issued to transfer 2018 Group 1 officers from key positions.
Senior officials were instructed to submit a compliance report by 7 PM.
The government moved swiftly to avoid further judicial displeasure.

The transfers are described as temporary and linked to the ongoing investigation.

Why This Matters

Group 1 posts are among the most senior state civil service positions.
The case affects administrative credibility.
Judicial oversight highlights accountability in recruitment processes.
The SIT investigation could influence future recruitment safeguards.

The outcome may have broader implications for public service examinations in Andhra Pradesh.

Key Entities

Andhra Pradesh High Court – Judicial authority overseeing the case
K. S. Vijayanand – Chief Secretary summoned by Court
Special Investigation Team (SIT) – Investigating alleged exam irregularities
Andhra Pradesh Government – Implementing transfer orders

Final Verdict

The High Court’s intervention underscores judicial scrutiny over alleged irregularities in the 2018 Group 1 examination. By summoning the Chief Secretary and insisting on compliance, the Court has reinforced accountability in administrative appointments.

With transfer orders now issued and the SIT probe ongoing, the final outcome will depend on the investigation’s findings and subsequent judicial review.