Former IAS Probationer Pooja Khedkar Granted Anticipatory Bail by Supreme Court
New Delhi: Former IAS probationer Pooja Khedkar has received significant relief from the Supreme Court, which granted her anticipatory bail. She is accused of misusing the reservation system in the UPSC civil services examination. However, the court stated that Khedkar is neither a terrorist nor a drug mafia member, nor has she committed murder. Therefore, there is no justification for keeping her in jail.
Allegations Against Pooja Khedkar
Pooja Khedkar is accused of fraudulently availing benefits under the OBC and disability quotas while appearing for the 2022 UPSC civil services examination. She allegedly provided false information in her application and used forged documents. The Delhi Police is currently investigating the matter.
Court's Ruling
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices B.V. Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma, while granting anticipatory bail, questioned the severity of the crime committed. They stated that she is not a drug mafia or terrorist, nor has she committed murder or violated the NDPS Act.
The court also noted that Khedkar has already lost everything – her job and future employment prospects. Therefore, detaining her during the investigation is deemed unnecessary.
Instruction to Cooperate with the Investigation
However, the Supreme Court directed Khedkar to fully cooperate with the investigation. The court clarified that the Delhi Police can summon her for questioning but cannot arrest her.
Delhi High Court's Denial of Bail
Earlier, the Delhi High Court had dismissed Khedkar's anticipatory bail plea. The High Court believed that Khedkar was not cooperating with the investigation and that the charges were serious. The Supreme Court, however, opined that considering the circumstances, the High Court should have granted bail.
Delhi Police's Opposition
The lawyer representing the Delhi Police bly opposed granting bail to Khedkar. They argued that she was not cooperating with the investigation and faced serious charges of fraud. According to the police, she intentionally submitted false documents and used a forged identity.
Strict Action by UPSC
Following the revelation of Khedkar's case, the UPSC took immediate action. The commission revoked her probationary status and filed a criminal case against her. The Delhi Police also registered an FIR against Khedkar under sections related to fraud, forgery, and criminal conspiracy.
Pooja Khedkar's Statement
Pooja Khedkar has denied all allegations. She claims she did not commit any fraud and that the documents submitted were already in her possession. She alleges that she is a victim of a political and institutional conspiracy.
