UPSC Chairperson Manoj Soni Resigns Amid Controversy
Manoj Soni, the Chairperson of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), has resigned nearly five years before his tenure was set to end. Soni joined the commission as a member in 2017 and became the Chairperson on May 16, 2023. His term was supposed to last until 2029.
Resignation Linked to Controversies
A top source told The Hindu that Soni resigned about a month ago. The source mentioned that the resignation is connected to recent controversies involving UPSC candidates securing their seats with fake certificates. It remains unclear if Soni’s resignation will be accepted.
Government Yet to Announce Replacement
Soni reportedly submitted his resignation to the President of India. The government has not yet accepted it, leaving uncertainty about whether he will be relieved from his position. The name of the new chairperson has not been announced.
Soni’s Close Ties to PM Modi
According to The Hindu, Soni is considered close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi appointed him as the Vice-Chancellor of MS University in Vadodara in 2005 when Soni was just 40 years old, making him the youngest V-C in the country.
FIR Filed Against UPSC Candidate
Recently, the UPSC filed an FIR against Pooja Khedkar for misuse of power and submitting fake certificates showing disability. This case has brought additional scrutiny to the commission.
Allegations Against Other Candidates
Jyoti Mishra gained widespread media attention after claiming to have cleared the UPSC exam. Later, allegations surfaced that she used forged caste certificates.
There have also been allegations that Anjali Birla, daughter of Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, cleared the examination without even appearing for it. Manoj Soni’s role in this case is being questioned, with claims that the Lok Sabha Speaker influenced Soni to induct his daughter into the UPSC.
Manoj Soni’s resignation as UPSC Chairperson amid these controversies raises serious questions about the integrity and transparency of the commission. As the government decides on Soni’s resignation and a potential replacement, the UPSC faces increased scrutiny and calls for reforms.
