The Delhi High Court has dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of former IAS officer Puja Khedkar, vacating the interim protection previously granted to her. The bench, led by Justice Chandra Dhari Singh, emphasized the gravity of the charges, citing the alleged fraud as not merely against an organization but society as a whole.
Key Observations by the Court
- Prestige of the UPSC Exam: The court underscored that the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is a prestigious institution, and any misconduct undermines public trust.
- Fraud Allegations: Khedkar is accused of using forged documents to unlawfully claim benefits under the OBC and disability quotas for the civil services examination.
- Collusion Suspicion: The court noted the possibility of collusion, given the high-ranking positions held by her parents.
- Need for Custodial Interrogation: The court deemed custodial interrogation necessary to uncover the larger conspiracy.
Arguments and Investigation Developments
- Defense’s Position: Khedkar, represented by Advocate Bina Madhvan, argued that she is willing to cooperate with the investigation and that custodial interrogation is unnecessary.
- Prosecution’s Stand: Delhi Police, represented by Special Public Prosecutor Advocate Sanjeev Bhandari, maintained that the investigation is ongoing, and custodial interrogation is essential to examine unresolved aspects of the conspiracy.
UPSC’s Allegations Against Khedkar
- False Affidavit: UPSC alleged that Khedkar manipulated the judicial system by filing a false affidavit to secure favorable court orders.
- Biometric Misrepresentation: The commission denied claims that it collected Khedkar’s biometrics during the civil services personality test, calling her assertions false and deceptive.
- Attempt Limit Violation: Khedkar allegedly falsified her identity to fraudulently avail herself of additional attempts beyond the permissible limit in the civil services examination.
Details of FIR and UPSC’s Response
- FIR Filing: Delhi Police registered an FIR based on a complaint by UPSC, accusing Khedkar of identity fraud and cheating.
- Cancellation Notification: UPSC clarified that Khedkar was officially notified of her candidature cancellation via her registered email, contradicting her claim that the information was not communicated to her.
Court’s Ruling
The court dismissed the anticipatory bail plea and vacated interim protection, signaling the need for a thorough investigation. The case highlights the seriousness of allegations involving manipulation of one of India’s most esteemed examinations and the broader implications of such misconduct.
Further developments in the investigation are awaited.