In a notable judicial development, the Supreme Court of India has granted anticipatory bail to Puja Khedkar, a former IAS probationer, who faces accusations of misrepresenting facts to avail reservation benefits under the OBC and disability categories in the 2022 UPSC civil services examination.

The bench, headed by Justices B V Nagarathna and Satish Chandra Sharma, emphasized that Khedkar was not accused of grave offences such as drug trafficking, terrorism, or murder, highlighting the relatively less serious nature of the allegations. The court orally observed, "What is the grave crime she has committed? She is not a drug lord or a terrorist. She has not committed murder or NDPS offences."

The Supreme Court directed Khedkar to fully cooperate with the ongoing probe led by Delhi Police, which has filed an FIR against her based on multiple allegations including cheating and falsification of identity to exploit reservation quotas during the UPSC exam.

The bench remarked that Khedkar had already suffered significant consequences, including losing career prospects and reputation, and stated that under the circumstances, the Delhi High Court should have granted bail earlier. The court underscored the importance of a thorough investigation but found no grounds to deny anticipatory bail in this case.

Delhi Police, however, opposed the bail petition vigorously, arguing that Khedkar was not cooperating adequately with the investigation and stressing the serious nature of the charges. Despite these objections, the Supreme Court ruled in her favour, balancing the need for investigation with personal liberty.

Khedkar has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing, asserting that she did not engage in misrepresentation or cheating during her civil services application process. The UPSC had initiated disciplinary and legal action against her, including lodging criminal complaints for allegedly submitting false information and attempting to appear multiple times under fraudulent identities.

This case has attracted widespread attention as it touches upon the sensitive issue of reservation quotas and integrity in India’s competitive civil services examinations. The Supreme Court's decision to grant anticipatory bail signals a cautious approach in handling such matters, ensuring the accused’s rights while the investigation continues.

Moving forward, Khedkar is expected to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies as the probe unfolds. The legal proceedings and investigations will determine the final outcome, but for now, the Supreme Court has provided relief against immediate arrest.

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