Ex-IAS Officer Challenges UPSC's Decision to Cancel Her Candidature in High Court

Former probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar has moved the Delhi High Court against UPSC's decision to cancel her candidature. The UPSC found her guilty of rule violations and fraud, leading to a permanent ban on future exams. The Delhi High Court will hear the case on Wednesday.

Former IAS probationary officer Puja Khedkar has challenged the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in the Delhi High Court over the cancellation of her candidature. The matter, mentioned before a bench led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan, is scheduled for a hearing on Wednesday.

The UPSC, on July 31, issued a press statement announcing the cancellation of Khedkar's provisional candidature due to accusations of cheating and forgery. The commission declared Khedkar guilty of rule violations and permanently barred her from all future exams. Despite being given an extension until July 30, 2024, to respond to a show cause notice, Khedkar failed to comply, leading to the cancellation of her candidature.

In a related development, the Delhi Patiala House Court dismissed Khedkar's anticipatory bail plea, noting the seriousness of the allegations, which require comprehensive investigation. The court highlighted the need for custodial interrogation to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and any involvement of other individuals. Khedkar faces charges under multiple sections of the IPC, IT Act, and Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)