Puja Khedkar, a former IAS probationer, was granted anticipatory bail on May 21, 2025 by the Supreme Court amid allegations of fraud involving the use of fake certificates for the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022. During the proceedings, the Supreme Court raised a critical question regarding the severity of the charges, specifically asking, "Has she committed murder?" This inquiry highlighted the court's view that the allegations did not warrant custodial interrogation, suggesting that the charges were not serious enough to justify her detention.
Puja Khedkar was selected for the the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 2022. However, soon after her selection, allegations surfaced that she had allegedly submitted a fake Other Backward Class (OBC) certificate. She also misrepresented her disability status to claim PwD reservation benefits.
The UPSC later scrutinized her application and found discrepancies in her claims. She was accused of concealing facts and benefiting fraudulently from the reservation system.
During her probation in Pune, Puja Khedkar was found to have made several inappropriate demands for privileges that are not permitted for probationary officers. She reportedly used her private Audi car, which was equipped with a red-blue beacon light and a VIP number plate, actions that are typically reserved for high-ranking officials. Additionally, Khedkar installed a Maharashtra government board on her vehicle, further misrepresenting her status.
Her requests included an official car, government accommodation, an office chamber, and additional staff, all of which are not standard entitlements for probationary officers. These actions raised significant concerns about her conduct and adherence to the ethical standards expected of civil service candidates, contributing to the allegations of fraud against her. The case highlights issues of misuse of power and the importance of accountability within the civil service framework.
Her IAS candidature was cancelled by the UPSC and permanently debarred from appearing in any future UPSC examinations.
A bench led by Justice B.V. Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma heard the appeal after the Delhi High Court had denied anticipatory bail, citing the seriousness of the charges and her alleged non-cooperation with authorities.
The bench questioned the necessity of custodial interrogation in this case. Justice Nagarathna remarked "what is the grave crime she has committed" She is not a drug lord or a terrorist. She has not committed murder. She is not an NDPS offender."
The court made it clear that this is not a case warranting arrest and Khedkar should cooperate with the investigation but does not need to be taken into custody.
Puja Khedkar was granted anticipatory bail with specific conditions imposed by the court. She is required to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigation into the allegations against her. Additionally, she is prohibited from leaving the country without obtaining prior permission from the court. Khedkar must also be available for questioning whenever called upon by the investigating agency. These conditions are intended to ensure that she remains accessible to the authorities while the investigation proceeds, balancing her rights with the need for accountability in the legal process.
Impact on UPSC and Future Candidates
UPSC is expected to tighten its verification process for reserved category candidates and case serves as a cautionary tale for aspirants attempting to manipulate the system.
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