UPSC Chairman Manoj Soni Resigns Amidst Controversy

UPSC Chairman Manoj Soni has resigned citing personal reasons. Congress claims he was 'nudged out' due to ongoing controversies. Soni's tenure was supposed to end in 2029. The UPSC is currently involved in a criminal case against probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar for faking her identity.

UPSC Chairman Manoj Soni tendered his resignation citing personal reasons, official sources revealed on Saturday. Congress alleges he was 'nudged out' amid ongoing controversies involving the UPSC.

Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh criticized the erosion of the autonomy and professionalism of Constitutional bodies since 2014, pointing towards the current government. Ramesh highlighted that Manoj Soni was appointed as UPSC Chairman in 2023 with a six-year term that was supposed to end in 2029, and he has resigned five years early.

Sources also suggest that Soni was not keen on the role and sought relief. His resignation comes as UPSC files a criminal case against probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar for identity fraud in the civil services examination.

(With inputs from agencies.)