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Topic : Puja Khedkar Controversy: Ethical Issues in Civil Services
GS-4 Mains : Ethics
Context:
- Puja Khedkar, a trainee IAS officer, faces accusations of misusing her power.
Similar Case:
- Abhishek Singh (2010 batch, IAS) – Allegedly used a fake disability certificate to qualify for the exam.
Ethical Concerns:
- Abuse of Power: Khedkar demanded special treatment (office, car, beacon) beyond a trainee’s entitlement.
- Integrity & Honesty: Accused of misrepresenting disability status for an unfair advantage in the exam (if true, a serious breach).
- Nepotism: Allegations of Khedkar’s father pressuring officials for her benefit. Raises concerns about favoritism and misuse of connections.
- Accountability & Transparency: Highlights the need for stricter measures in civil service recruitment and training to ensure ethical conduct.
- Public Trust: Khedkar’s actions (if true) erode public trust in the IAS, vital for a functioning democracy.