Political tensions in Andhra Pradesh have intensified following serious allegations by YSRP leaders accusing the state government of serious irregularities in the recently concluded Mega Direct Selection Centre (DSC) teacher recruitment drive. The opposition has demanded an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), calling the recruitment process a so-called "job mela" — essentially accusing the government of commercialising public employment.
The Mega DSC, one of the largest teacher recruitment exercises in the state's history, aimed to fill thousands of teaching positions across government schools in Andhra Pradesh. However, after the results were declared, members of the YSRP alleged that many selected candidates had obtained their positions through questionable means, including what they described as bribery and political connections rather than merit-based selection.
During a press conference, senior YSRP leaders stated that the evidence of malpractice was widespread and could only be properly investigated by an independent central agency like the CBI. They argued that a state-level inquiry would not be sufficient given the scale of the alleged corruption and the political influence they claimed was involved.
In response, leaders of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which is part of the ruling alliance, strongly rejected the accusations. A TDP spokesperson called the allegations baseless and politically motivated, accusing the opposition of trying to discredit a transparent and well-conducted recruitment process. The party maintained that the entire DSC procedure was carried out under strict supervision with multiple safeguards to ensure fairness.
Education analysts note that the DSC recruitment in Andhra Pradesh has historically been a sensitive political issue, with previous cycles also witnessing allegations of favouritism and procedural lapses. The current dispute is expected to remain a flashpoint in the state's political discourse, especially with local body elections on the horizon.
The state government has so far declined to announce an independent inquiry into the matter, maintaining confidence in the integrity of the selection process. Legal experts suggest that unless new evidence emerges, a CBI investigation would require either a formal petition to the judiciary or a central government order based on specific grounds.
