New Delhi: On Friday, July 19, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) took legal action against IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, issuing a show cause notice for the cancellation of her candidature from the Civil Services Exam – 2022 and proposed debarment from future exams.
According to a statement released by the commission, a comprehensive investigation into the conduct of Puja Manorama Dilip Khedkar, a provisionally recommended candidate of the Civil Services Examination-2022, uncovered serious irregularities. It was revealed that she allegedly exceeded the permissible attempt limit by falsifying her identity, including changing her name, father’s and mother’s names, photograph, signature, email ID, mobile number, and address.
“The UPSC has initiated multiple actions against her, including filing a First Information Report (FIR) with the police authorities and issuing a show cause notice for the cancellation of her candidature by the rules of the Civil Services Examination-2022,” the statement declared.
Emphasizing its commitment to upholding its constitutional mandate, the UPSC stated that all its processes, particularly examinations, are conducted with utmost diligence and without compromise.
“The Commission has consistently maintained the sanctity and integrity of its examination procedures, ensuring fairness and strict adherence to regulations, thereby earning significant trust and credibility from the public and candidates alike,” the statement affirmed.
Earlier on July 18, the Maharashtra government’s General Administrative Department (GAD), led by Additional Chief Secretary Nitin Gadre, submitted a report to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) of the Union government. This report, addressing multiple allegations against Khedkar, was also forwarded to a one-member committee headed by Additional Secretary Manoj Diwedi for further investigation.
Khedkar came under scrutiny following controversies involving the unauthorized use of an amber beacon and the state government insignia on her Audi, as well as a dispute with a senior officer over office usage.