Puja Khedkar and the Disability Claims

Puja Khedkar, a former trainee IAS officer, has been embroiled in controversy over her claims of disability and alleged irregularities in securing her position through the civil services exam.

• Khedkar claims a 47 per cent disability based on an ACL tear with left knee instability.
• She has sought to disregard her attempts as a general category candidate and have only her attempts under the "divyang" category (persons with disabilities) considered.
• Her claims have been met with skepticism, leading to investigations and legal proceedings.

Allegations of Forgery and Cheating

Beyond the disability claims, Khedkar is also facing allegations of forgery and cheating, including:

• Changing her name and surname and forging an OBC certificate to gain an advantage in the exam.
• Using her official position to obtain perks beyond her pay grade, such as a siren and a "Government of Maharashtra" sticker for her personal vehicle.

UPSC's Stance and Khedkar's Response

The UPSC (Union Public Service Commission), which conducts the civil services exam, has revoked Khedkar's selection, accusing her of "fraudulently availing attempts... by faking her identity".

• Khedkar has refuted these claims, arguing that the UPSC lacks the authority to disqualify her after her appointment as a probationary officer.
• She has also claimed that her name change was only a middle name alteration and her biometric data verified her identity.

The Delhi High Court's Role

The Delhi High Court is currently hearing an anticipatory bail plea filed by Khedkar. The lower court had rejected her plea, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the potential for hindering the investigation.

• The police are seeking the dismissal of her bail plea, arguing that it could damage public perception of the integrity of the civil services examination.
• The court has temporarily protected Khedkar from arrest while it considers her plea.

The Impact of Khedkar's Case

The case of Puja Khedkar has raised concerns about the fairness and integrity of the civil services exam, a highly competitive process for entry into the IAS (Indian Administrative Service).

• It has highlighted the challenges of ensuring equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities while also safeguarding the exam's credibility.
• The case has also sparked discussions about the role of the UPSC and the government in addressing allegations of fraud and misconduct in the exam process.

The Importance of Ethical Conduct

The allegations against Khedkar underscore the importance of ethical conduct and transparency in public service. The pursuit of a career in the IAS requires not only knowledge and skill, but also a strong commitment to honesty and integrity.

• The case serves as a reminder that the actions of individuals can have far-reaching consequences for the reputation and trust placed in public institutions.
• It is essential to ensure that the civil services exam remains a fair and accessible pathway for all aspiring civil servants.