Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has voiced strong concerns over recent scandals involving the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), accusing the BJP-RSS of attempting an “institutional takeover” of India’s constitutional bodies. This criticism follows the resignation of UPSC Chairman Manoj Soni amid allegations of fraudulent practices by a trainee IAS officer, Pooja Khedkar. The Congress leadership is calling for a thorough investigation into the matter and questioning the integrity of the UPSC’s operations.
BulletsIn
- Kharge’s Allegations: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge accused the BJP-RSS of an “institutional takeover” of India’s constitutional bodies, including the UPSC.
- Scandals as National Concern: Kharge highlighted multiple scandals involving the UPSC as a cause of national concern, criticizing the alleged damage to the institution’s reputation and integrity.
- Resignation of UPSC Chairman: UPSC Chairman Manoj Soni resigned nearly five years before the end of his term, citing “personal reasons,” though the resignation has not yet been officially accepted.
- Fraudulent Practices: The controversy involves trainee IAS officer Pooja Khedkar, who is accused of forging identity documents to gain entry into the civil service.
- Kharge’s Critique: Kharge questioned why Soni’s resignation was kept secret for a month and suggested a connection between the scandals and his early departure.
- Jairam Ramesh’s Statement: Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh claimed that since 2014, the BJP has undermined the sanctity and autonomy of constitutional bodies, including the UPSC.
- Questioning Resignation Timing: Ramesh questioned the timing of Soni’s resignation amid the UPSC controversy and suggested he might have been forced out due to the scandal.
- UPSC Procedures: Sources from the Department of Personnel and Training (DOPT) confirmed that Soni’s resignation, due to personal reasons, is yet to be formally accepted.
- Controversy Details: The UPSC controversy involves allegations that Khedkar fraudulently manipulated her identity to exceed permissible attempts in the civil service examinations.
- Call for Investigation: Both Kharge and Ramesh are demanding a thorough investigation into the UPSC’s operations and the fraudulent practices alleged in the current controversy.
