In a major setback for former IAS trainee Pooja Khedkar, the Nashik Divisional Commissioner has officially cancelled her OBC Non-Creamy Layer certificate over allegations of fraud during the 2022 UPSC Civil Services Examination. Khedkar, who secured 841st rank, is accused of misusing a fake caste and disability certificate to avail reservation benefits and qualify despite lower marks.
The cancellation order was issued by Commissioner Pravin Gedam, who rejected her OBC certificate application nearly a month ago. Following the decision, Khedkar filed an appeal before Appasaheb Dhulaj, Secretary of Maharashtra’s OBC Department, but the rejection stands as of now.
Investigations have revealed that Khedkar submitted a forged disability certificate to gain special concessions under the physically disabled quota. The Delhi Police, during their inquiry, reportedly confirmed the certificate was fake—adding further weight to the charges against her. Her IAS probation had already been terminated earlier this year due to these serious discrepancies.
Khedkar’s case has sparked outrage over the misuse of reservation policies in India’s most prestigious recruitment system. Activist Anil Kumbhar, who has been consistently following the matter, welcomed the action but pointed out the delay in holding her accountable.
This development may have wider implications as the case underscores systemic gaps in verifying caste and disability claims. With multiple irregularities surfacing, further legal scrutiny may take place into her selection.
