In a significant development, the Central Government has discharged IAS trainee officer Puja Khedkar from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) with immediate effect following an investigation into her misuse of reservation benefits and falsification of records. This decision comes after Khedkar was found guilty of manipulating both caste and disability certificates to gain entry into the prestigious civil services.
Khedkar, who had secured her position in the 2023 UPSC batch under the OBC (non-creamy layer) and disability quotas, reportedly submitted fake documents to claim these benefits. The controversy began when it was revealed that her father, Deelip Kondiba Khedkar, had contested the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and owned assets worth Rs 40 crore, raising questions about her eligibility for the OBC quota. Additionally, Khedkar had obtained multiple disability certificates over a span of three years, raising further suspicion about the legitimacy of her claims. She used different names on these certificates, which were later proven to be based on false information.
Her dismissal is based on Rule 12 of the IAS (Probation) Rules, 1954, which allows for the termination of a probationer if they fail to meet eligibility or are deemed unsuitable for service. Along with her dismissal, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has barred Khedkar from ever reapplying for the civil services exam. Her actions have stirred a nationwide debate on the misuse of reservation benefits, particularly in the competitive environment of the civil services.
This case underscores the importance of stringent vetting processes and the legal consequences for individuals who manipulate their way into government positions using fraudulent means. Khedkar’s fall from grace also highlights the need for reforms in ensuring that the benefits of reservations reach deserving candidates.
Sources : (DNA India)(India Today)(News24)
