Middlemen target NHM aspirants as 1,756 apply for 50 posts in Karimnagar | Hyderabad News

Hyderabad: Even before the scrutiny of applications began for 50 contractual posts under the National Health Mission (NHM) in Karimnagar, middlemen reportedly started approaching job aspirants with promises of securing appointments, while political leaders allegedly began pressuring officials to favour their supporters.Applications have been invited for 50 vacancies across eight categories of medical and healthcare staff in the district. The recruitment drive has attracted considerable interest, with 1,756 applications received by the time the deadline ended on Saturday evening.The number of applicants was higher than officials had anticipated across categories. However, even before the scrutiny process began, political recommendations and attempts to influence the selection process reportedly gained pace.Meanwhile, reports suggest that some middlemen are attempting to exploit job aspirants by promising appointments in exchange for large sums of money. The alleged efforts to collect money have raised concerns, as the official selection process is yet to be completed.Scrutiny beginsOfficials began scrutinising the applications on Sunday, with the process scheduled to continue until Nov 8, and will display the list of eligible candidates. Objections, if any, will be received on Nov 9, after which the final selection list will be announced on Nov 15. Appointment orders are scheduled to be issued on Nov 18.District Medical and Health Department officials said the recruitment process would be conducted transparently in accordance with the district collector’s instructions. They warned applicants against believing anyone claiming to have influence over the selection process or demanding money in exchange for a job.“There is no scope for recommendations or lobbying in the recruitment process. Applicants should not be misled by middlemen. If anyone demands money, they should lodge a complaint. Criminal action will be taken against those responsible. Recruitment will be conducted transparently in accordance with the collector’s instructions,” District Medical and Health Officer Dr B Rajagopala Rao said.