The legal proceedings in the Pooja Khedkar case have triggered widespread debate across Maharashtra and the nation. Khedkar, a former IAS probationer, allegedly secured her position through fraudulent means, exploiting quotas meant for Other Backward Classes (OBC) and persons with disabilities. The allegations have raised serious concerns about the misuse of reservation policies and the integrity of public administration.
Khedkar was selected for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) through the 2022 Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination under quotas for disadvantaged groups. Investigations revealed that she falsified her eligibility by submitting fabricated certificates. It was discovered that Khedkar neither belonged to the OBC category nor qualified as a person with disabilities. Following these revelations, the Delhi Crime Branch registered an FIR based on a complaint from the UPSC.
Khedkar’s petition for anticipatory bail was denied by both the Patiala House Court and the Delhi High Court. On December 23, 2024, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh of the Delhi High Court highlighted the gravity of the allegations, describing Khedkar’s actions as a betrayal of public trust. The court stated, “Her conduct undermines not only the UPSC but society at large,” and emphasised the necessity of custodial interrogation to uncover the extent of the fraud and identify other conspirators.
The case underscores the vulnerabilities in India’s reservation system, designed to provide equitable opportunities for marginalised groups. By allegedly exploiting these provisions, Khedkar jeopardised the credibility of the UPSC and deprived deserving candidates of opportunities. The High Court’s ruling reflected this, stating that the alleged actions constituted a “serious betrayal of the principles of fairness and equality.”
In her defence, Khedkar denied the allegations, asserting the authenticity of her documents. She claimed to be targeted for filing a sexual harassment complaint against a senior official. To support her disability claim, she presented a hospital certificate diagnosing her with an “old ACL tear with left knee instability.” However, both the Delhi Police and the UPSC countered these claims, maintaining that her custody was essential for a thorough investigation.
The case has reignited debates on the effectiveness of current verification mechanisms for reservation benefits. Civil society organisations and policymakers have called for stricter checks to prevent misuse. Public outrage has been fuelled by reports that Khedkar’s affluent and well-connected family may have facilitated the production of fraudulent certificates.
In September 2024, the Union Government dismissed Khedkar from her probationary position, reflecting its commitment to addressing breaches of trust in public service. Justice Singh’s ruling emphasised the judiciary’s role in maintaining accountability and transparency, underscoring the importance of upholding democratic principles.
The Pooja Khedkar case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing India’s reservation system. It highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms to prevent similar abuses and ensure that affirmative action policies fulfil their intended purpose. As investigations continue, restoring public trust in the UPSC examination process and the reservation system remains a critical priority.
