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The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has implemented significant changes to its application process for the 2025 Civil Services Preliminary Examination (CSE) in the wake of the controversy surrounding probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar. Khedkar's alleged forgery of documents and falsification of information to gain extra attempts in the 2022 CSE prompted the commission to mandate the online submission of all supporting documentation, including educational, caste, and physical disability certificates, at the time of application. Previously, candidates submitted these documents only after being shortlisted for the Mains examination. This proactive measure aims to prevent future instances of fraudulent activity and ensure the integrity of the selection process. The new rule, clearly stated in the official notification, emphasizes that failure to provide the necessary documents along with the online application will result in the immediate cancellation of the candidate's candidature.
The Khedkar case highlighted significant vulnerabilities in the UPSC's previous application system. Her alleged actions involved submitting a fraudulent Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD) certificate to claim reservation, allowing her to exceed the permissible number of attempts. The investigation revealed that she managed to take the exam twelve times instead of the allowed nine. This exposed a gap in verification procedures, allowing false information to go undetected until a later stage of the process. The subsequent investigation, leading to her dismissal from service and criminal charges, served as a catalyst for the UPSC to reform its application procedures. The commission's decision to require upfront document submission signifies a commitment to greater transparency and accountability in the selection process and a proactive response to the security concerns raised by Khedkar's case. This change aims to create a more robust and secure system for verifying candidate information, preventing similar fraudulent activities from undermining the integrity of the Civil Services Examination.
The implementation of online document submission represents a significant shift in the UPSC's approach to candidate verification. It leverages technology to streamline the process while simultaneously enhancing security. By requiring upfront submission of all necessary documentation, the commission can verify the authenticity of claims at the outset, significantly reducing the risk of fraudulent applications advancing to later stages. This move is expected to reduce administrative burden, making the process more efficient for both the commission and the candidates. However, it also introduces the challenge of ensuring accessibility for candidates with limited digital literacy or technological resources. The UPSC will need to address these concerns by providing adequate support and guidance to ensure that all eligible candidates can participate in the examination regardless of their technological proficiency. This might involve providing access to online resources, assistance centers, or other means of support to ensure equitable access to the application process.
The UPSC's response to the Khedkar case underscores the importance of robust and adaptable examination systems. The changes implemented not only address the immediate concerns raised by the incident but also demonstrate a proactive approach to improving the overall integrity and fairness of the Civil Services Examination. The move to online document submission is likely to be emulated by other examination boards and institutions, setting a new standard for verifying candidate information. The long-term implications of this change extend beyond the immediate impact on the 2025 CSE. It sets a precedent for greater transparency and accountability in competitive examinations across India, enhancing public trust in the fairness and integrity of these vital selection processes. The focus on proactive security measures sends a clear message to potential applicants that the system is robust and rigorously protects against fraudulent practices. This proactive approach reinforces the UPSC's commitment to ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
Source: UPSC CSE Exam 2025: Govt Changes Rules For Application In Aftermath Of Puja Khedkar Row