UPSC Fraud Case: Delhi HC Grants Extended Protection to Puja Khedkar

Pune: The Delhi High Court has extended temporary relief to Puja Khedkar, a dismissed probationary IAS officer, by ordering a stay on her arrest until August 29.

Khedkar faces allegations of defrauding the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) by submitting forged documents, leading to her dismissal from service.

The controversy arose when Khedkar, accused of misrepresenting her identity to gain additional attempts in the civil services examination, sought anticipatory bail from the Patiala House Court.

However, her request was denied, prompting her to approach the Delhi High Court. The High Court had earlier granted her protection from arrest until August 21.

During today's hearing, the court observed that immediate arrest was not necessary as the case is still under review. The Delhi Police and UPSC have been asked to submit their responses. So far, a detailed investigation into the allegations has yet to be conducted.

The UPSC had filed a complaint against Khedkar, leading to a criminal case being registered by the Delhi Police, increasing the likelihood of her arrest. Khedkar then sought anticipatory bail, a decision eagerly awaited during today's hearing.

Khedkar's counsel informed the court that UPSC had submitted an affidavit on August 20, and additional time is needed to review the contents.

In its affidavit, the UPSC strongly opposed granting bail to Khedkar, asserting that her arrest is essential for the investigation. They argued that critical details regarding how Khedkar allegedly used forged documents to secure a place in the 2022 IAS examination can only be uncovered through her detention.

The UPSC emphasized the need for thorough interrogation to gather necessary evidence.