The Delhi High Court on Monday rejected the anticipatory bail plea of former IAS officer Pooja Khedkar in the case of alleged cheating in the UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022 and misuse of reservation quota. Khedkar is accused of giving fake information in his application to avail unfair advantage of OBC and disabled quota.
Justice Chandra Dhari Singh said in his order:
“The anticipatory bail plea is dismissed. “Interim protection from arrest stands cancelled.”
Case of fraud with constitutional institution and society
The court said that preliminary investigation makes out a strong case against Khedkar and a detailed investigation is required to unearth the conspiracy.
- court comment,
“This is a case of fraud on the constitutional institution as well as the society. Khedkar is misusing benefits reserved for disadvantaged groups.” - part of the conspiracy,
The court also said that their actions were part of a larger conspiracy to manipulate the system.
Fraud with the entire country: High Court
Describing UPSC as “one of the most prestigious examinations in the world”, the High Court said that Pooja Khedkar has cheated not only this constitutional body but the entire country.
- Why was bail not granted?
“If he is granted anticipatory bail, it will affect the investigation.” - manipulation of the system,
The court said that this act of Khedkar is an attempt to create chaos in the system and gain unfair advantage.
What are the allegations against Khedkar?
Pooja Khedkar is accused of taking advantage of reservation by giving wrong information in the application for UPSC Civil Services Examination 2022.
- FIR registered,
UPSC had initiated action against him in July 2022. - Blame,
- Appearing in the examination on the basis of fake identity.
- Violation of the provisions of the Indian Penal Code, Information Technology Act (IT Act), and Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.
- Role of Delhi Police,
Delhi Police registered a case against Khedkar under these sections.
opposition to anticipatory bail
Khedkar’s anticipatory bail plea was strongly opposed by Delhi Police and UPSC.
- UPSC lawyer’s statement,
Senior lawyers Naresh Kaushik and Vardhaman Kaushik presented UPSC’s side in the court. - Khedkar’s defense,
Khedkar has denied all the allegations against him.
strict stance of the court
Delhi High Court clarified that this matter is not just about one person but is related to the integrity of the entire system. The court rejected Khedkar’s plea, saying it was necessary to ensure that the investigation process continues uninterrupted.
