Court Denies Bail to IAS Trainee Suspected of UPSC Exam Fraud

Delhi's Patiala House Court has dismissed the anticipatory bail of IAS trainee Puja Khedkar, accused of using fraudulent means to clear the UPSC exam. The court instructed an extensive probe into other candidates and possible involvement of UPSC officials. Khedkar denies the allegations and claims innocence.

Delhi's Patiala House Court has dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of trainee Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Puja Khedkar, who faces allegations of using fraudulent means to pass the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination. Additional Sessions Judge Devender Kumar Jangala has directed the investigation agency to broaden its inquiry.

The court specifically instructed investigators to scrutinize candidates recommended by the UPSC in recent years who might have exceeded the age limit under the OBC quota and those who improperly received benefits for persons with benchmark disabilities. Authorities are also looking into possible assistance provided to Khedkar by UPSC officials.

Khedkar has asserted her innocence, suggesting she has been wrongly implicated. Advocate Bina Madhvan noted that her disability certificate confirms a permanent benchmark disability of 47%. However, Special Public Prosecutor Atul Srivastava argued that Khedkar has frequently altered her stance, justifying the need for custodial interrogation.

Senior Advocate Naresh Kaushik, representing the UPSC, stated that Khedkar admitted to false information regarding the number of attempts, constituting an offence against the UPSC and society. Documents show Khedkar has consistently maintained her credentials, countering misrepresentation allegations. The court continues to review her case.

Delhi Police registered an FIR based on a complaint by the UPSC, revealing that Khedkar exceeded the permissible attempt limit by altering personal details. As a result, she has been removed from a district training program and recalled to the LBSNAA in Mussoorie, pending further action.

(With inputs from agencies.)