Puja Khedkar can challenge her candidature cancellation in any forum: High Court

In a dramatic turn of events, the fate of Puja Khedkar, the controversial probationary IAS officer, hangs in the balance as the Delhi High Court awaits a crucial order on her candidature cancellation. The court was informed that the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) would communicate its decision to Khedkar within two days, following a series of serious allegations.

The UPSC’s decision, made on July 31, came after allegations surfaced that Khedkar had misused her powers and violated the Civil Services Examination (CSE) rules. The commission’s drastic measure includes cancelling her provisional candidature and barring her from participating in future UPSC examinations. This decision marks a significant development in a case that has captured widespread attention.

During the court hearing, the Delhi High Court granted Khedkar the right to challenge the cancellation of her candidature before an appropriate forum. However, the court refrained from commenting on the case's merits, emphasising that the future proceedings would determine the outcome based on the evidence presented.