The Delhi High Court has denied anticipatory bail to Puja Khedkar, a former Indian Administrative Services (IAS) trainee, in connection with a cheating case involving the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Khedkar is accused of manipulating her identity to gain additional attempts in the UPSC examination, beyond the permissible limit.
Justice Chandra Dhari Singh, who heard the case, stated that Khedkar’s actions were part of a larger conspiracy to undermine the system. He emphasized that granting anticipatory bail would hinder the ongoing investigation, which aims to uncover the full scope of the alleged fraud.
“This is a classic case of fraud not only against UPSC but against society at large,” said Justice Singh. “The conduct of the petitioner is part of a larger conspiracy, and the investigation could be obstructed if anticipatory bail is granted.”
Khedkar, who was discharged from the IAS by the Centre in September, is accused of faking information in her UPSC application to secure reservation benefits and gain extra attempts in the civil services exam. The discharge occurred after an inquiry was conducted into the allegations.
The UPSC and the Delhi Police have opposed Khedkar’s request for pre-arrest bail. Khedkar has denied all charges, but the police have registered an FIR under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Information Technology Act, and the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act. The case continues to unfold as authorities investigate further.
 trainee, in connection with a cheating case involving the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Khedkar is accused of manipulating her identity to gain additional attempts in the UPSC examination, beyond the permissible limit.){kind=link}