Puja Khedkar Case Prompts Changes in UPSC Application Rules

The UPSC’s decision to mandate document submission at the application stage for the 2025 Civil Services Prelims Exam follows the controversy surrounding probationary Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Puja Khedkar. Khedkar is accused of forging identity documents, misrepresenting information, and falsifying facts to gain additional attempts in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2022.

UPSC Application Rules

According to reports, Khedkar allegedly submitted a fake Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD) certificate to claim reservation benefits. This allowed her to exceed the standard limit of nine attempts and appear for the exams a total of 12 times.

The case has highlighted vulnerabilities in the existing system of document verification, prompting the UPSC to tighten its rules. By requiring candidates to submit documents such as educational qualifications, caste, and disability certificates during the initial application process, the Commission aims to curb potential misuse of the system and maintain the integrity of the examination process.