The Delhi High Court on Thursday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to suspended IAS officer Pooja Khedkar until October 4, 2024. The court’s decision came during a hearing where both counsels sought more time to present detailed submissions, leading to the adjournment of the case.

The interim protection, initially granted on August 12, directed the Delhi Police not to arrest Khedkar until August 21. This protection had been extended several times, with the latest extension granted until Thursday.

During the hearing, the counsel representing the Delhi Police informed the court that the investigation into Khedkar’s alleged identity fraud is uncovering a “larger conspiracy,” which may prompt further inquiries.

The case revolves around allegations that Khedkar fraudulently misused OBC and disability quota benefits to secure her position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). On September 7, the central government discharged her from the IAS following accusations of cheating, which she has consistently denied.

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) previously alleged that Khedkar misrepresented her identity during the 2022 Civil Services Examination to avail reservation benefits. A criminal case was lodged by the commission, accusing her of fraud and misrepresentation. Following the complaint, the Delhi Police registered an FIR under provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Information Technology Act, and the Right of Persons with Disabilities Act.

Further investigations have revealed that Khedkar submitted two separate disability certificates, with the police suspecting that one of these may be forged. The court will hear the case again on October 4, 2024.