Pooja Manorama Dilip Khedkar, an IAS probationary officer, has been dismissed from service by the central government under Rule 12 of the IAS (Probation) Rules, 1954. This action follows serious allegations that she cheated and misused the OBC and disability quotas to secure her position in the civil services exam of 2022. The termination comes shortly after the UPSC canceled her candidature following preliminary inquiries into her credentials.

The controversy surrounding Khedkar emerged due to her contentious conduct while serving as an IAS officer, which led to her transfer from Pune to Washim, Maharashtra, after numerous complaints about her behavior. Further investigation revealed discrepancies in her medical and caste certificates, prompting a deeper scrutiny into her claims and application process.

The UPSC's investigation found substantial evidence suggesting that Khedkar may have forged disability certificates to gain an unfair advantage in the exam. Consequently, a criminal case has been initiated against her, and a show cause notice was issued for the cancellation of her candidature. The central government’s decision to terminate her service aligns with the rules that permit the discharge of probationers for failing to meet eligibility or suitability requirements.