Former probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar has filed a petition with the Delhi High Court challenging the Union Public Service Commission's (UPSC) decision to cancel her candidature. The petition was presented on Monday before a bench led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and is scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday.
UPSC's cancellation decision
On July 31, the UPSC announced the cancellation of Khedkar's provisional candidature via a press statement, citing cheating and forgery. The commission has permanently disqualified her from future exams and selections. According to the UPSC, Khedkar was given until 3:30 PM on July 30, 2024, to respond to a show-cause notice but failed to meet the deadline.
Court's rejection of bail plea
The Delhi Patiala House Court recently dismissed Khedkar's anticipatory bail plea. Additional Sessions Judge Devender Kumar Jangala highlighted the seriousness of the allegations and the necessity for custodial interrogation to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and other possible involved parties.
Investigation scope expanded
The court has directed the investigating agency to broaden its scope, including:
- Identifying candidates who illegally availed extra attempts.
- Investigating individuals who falsely obtained OBC (non-creamy layer) benefits.
- Scrutinising those who falsely claimed benefits for persons with benchmark disabilities.
- Determining if any insiders assisted Khedkar in her alleged fraud.
Allegations and FIR
Khedkar is accused of "faking her identity to fraudulently avail attempts beyond the permissible limit" in the civil services examination. The Delhi Police registered an FIR against her based on a complaint from the UPSC. The court noted the need for a thorough investigation due to the gravity of the charges under various sections of the IPC, IT Act, and Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.
