Row erupts after paper leak case accused joins NC

A controversy has erupted after former Border Security Force (BSF) Commandant Karnail Singh, who is an accused of J&K Sub-Inspector Recruitment scam, recently joined the National Conference (NC).

Political and students’ organisations have criticised the NC for allowing a tainted person to be a part of the party. Karnail Singh is accused of leaking examination papers for posts of police sub-inspector, junior engineer and finance account assistant.

Nasir Khuehami, national convener of J&K Students Association, said Karnail Singh, the alleged “kingpin” behind the notorious recruitment scams that shattered the dreams of thousands of hardworking youth, had now joined the NC.

“This is nothing short of blatant betrayal of voters who trusted the government and believed in merit, equity and justice,” he said.

“Karnail Singh who was arrested by the CBI in 2022 for his alleged role in leaking exam papers has been warmly welcomed into the party by NC president Farooq Abdullah. What a spectacle! The man who allegedly sold the dreams of thousands to the highest bidder is now being paraded as a leader. Is this the kind of politics J&K deserves? It is a direct slap on the face of every aspirant who worked tirelessly for a brighter future, only to see their dreams crushed by corruption,” Nasir stated.

Karnail Singh along with 23 others was arrested in 2022 after the scam was uncovered.

During a media interaction on Thursday, Farooq said, “I was not aware that he (Karnail Singh) was an accused in a case. We have told him that he cannot join the NC until he is acquitted in the case.”

Many users on social media criticised the NC move for allowing Karnail Singh to join the party.