Khedkar Found Guilty of Identity Fraud to Exceed Exam Attempts

New Delhi, July 31, 2024 — In a dramatic turn of events, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has annulled Puja Khedkar’s selection for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and has imposed a lifetime ban on her participation in any future UPSC examinations.

The decision, announced earlier today, comes after an extensive investigation into Khedkar’s examination process and subsequent selection. The UPSC has not disclosed specific details about the reasons behind this severe action, citing confidentiality and ongoing procedural matters.

Sources close to the matter suggest that the cancellation is linked to allegations of irregularities during the examination or selection process. The UPSC’s rigorous scrutiny aims to uphold the integrity and fairness of its examinations, which are highly competitive and critical for entry into the Indian bureaucracy.

Khedkar, who had previously secured a top rank in the IAS examinations, has been a prominent figure in the public eye. Her sudden disqualification has sparked widespread reaction, both from her supporters and critics. While some view the move as necessary for maintaining examination integrity, others express concern about the transparency and fairness of the decision-making process.

In response to the UPSC’s announcement, Khedkar has yet to issue a formal statement. Legal experts anticipate that she might pursue legal recourse to challenge the ban and seek a review of the decision.

The UPSC, known for its stringent standards and oversight, has emphasized its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent process. The Commission has stated that it will continue to take necessary actions to uphold the credibility of its examinations and selections.

This development is expected to lead to further scrutiny and debate within academic and public circles about the UPSC’s procedures and the impact of such decisions on individuals and the broader examination community.