UPSC takes legal action against IAS trainee Puja Khedkar, issues show-cause notice

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) announced on July 19 the initiation of criminal proceedings against Puja Khedkar, an IAS trainee, while also issuing a show-cause notice to potentially revoke her candidature from the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2022.

In an official statement, the Commission revealed, "Following an exhaustive investigation into the misconduct of Puja Manorama Dilip Khedkar, who was provisionally recommended as a candidate for CSE-2022, it was discovered that she deceitfully utilized attempts beyond the allowed limit by falsifying her identity.

This included altering her name, her parents' names, her photograph and signature, as well as her email ID, mobile number, and address."

The UPSC detailed the actions taken, stating, "We have initiated a series of measures, including the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) with the police and issuing a Show Cause Notice (SCN) to revoke her candidature for CSE-2022.

Additionally, we are considering barring her from future examinations and selections in accordance with the CSE-2022 Rules."

The Commission emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its processes, stating, "UPSC strictly adheres to its Constitutional duties, ensuring the highest standards of diligence and fairness in all its examinations and processes.

Our unwavering commitment to upholding the sanctity and integrity of these processes has rightfully earned us the trust and credibility of the public and candidates alike."

As part of the ongoing investigation, the trainee IAS officer is also being scrutinized for potential abuse of power and privileges.

On July 16, Khedkar was "immediately recalled" to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, pausing her training in Maharashtra's Washim district.