New Delhi: Troubled trainee IAS officer Pooja Khedkar faces escalating consequences as the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) initiates significant actions against her. Following the postponement of her training program, the UPSC has now registered a case and barred her from future competitive exams. Additionally, Khedkar has been issued a show-cause notice demanding an explanation.
Fraud Allegations Lead to FIR and Examination Ban
On Friday, the UPSC announced that an FIR had been registered against trainee IAS officer Pooja Manorama Dilip Khedkar. The allegations involve creating a fake identity to fraudulently secure her selection. The commission stated that Khedkar manipulated various personal details, including her name, parents’ names, photographs, signature, email ID, mobile number, and address, to fabricate a false identity. This breach was discovered during an investigation into her provisional recommendation for the Civil Services Examination, 2022.
Official Statement from UPSC
In a press release, the UPSC detailed the findings of the investigation and the subsequent actions taken. The commission emphasized that Khedkar’s fraudulent attempts exceeded the acceptable limits outlined in the examination rules. As a result, she has been debarred from future examinations and selections. The UPSC has also initiated criminal prosecution by filing an FIR with the police authorities.
Show Cause Notice and Further Actions
In line with the Civil Services Examination 2022 rules, the UPSC issued a show cause notice to Pooja Khedkar, intending to cancel her candidature for the examination and prevent her from participating in any future exams. This decisive action reflects the commission’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its processes.
Recall to Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration
On July 16, Khedkar was relieved from her District Training Program by the Maharashtra State Government and recalled to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. This move was detailed in a letter from Additional Chief Secretary Nitin Gadre, citing the academy’s decision to suspend her training and recall her for further necessary actions.
Commitment to Fair Processes
The UPSC reiterated its dedication to conducting examinations and related processes without discrimination or adjustments. The commission assured that it strictly adheres to its constitutional mandate in fulfilling its obligations.
Summary of Key Actions and Statements
| Action Taken | Details |
|---|---|
| FIR Registered | Against Pooja Khedkar for creating a fake identity |
| Examination Ban | Khedkar barred from all future competitive examinations |
| Show Cause Notice | Issued to cancel her candidature and seek an explanation |
| Investigation Findings | Fraudulent manipulation of personal details to create a false identity |
| Recall from Training Program | Relieved from Maharashtra’s District Training Program and recalled to Mussoorie |
| UPSC’s Commitment | Assurance of fair, unbiased processes in all examinations |
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