New Delhi [India], July 20 (HBTV): In a surprising turn of events, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) chairman Manoj Soni has put down his papers citing "personal reasons" nearly five years before the end of his tenure. 

Sources at the Department of Personnel and Training (DOPT) told ANI that his resignation has not yet been accepted. Soni's term was originally set to conclude in 2029. 

"UPSC chairman Manoj Soni has put in his papers due to personal reasons. His resignation has not been accepted yet. It is a long procedure," sources at DOPT told ANI over the phone.   

ANI attempted to contact Manoj Soni, but he did not respond to calls or texts.

Soni, who began working with the UPSC as a member in 2017, was sworn in as the chairperson of the commission on May 16, 2023. His tenure was supposed to end in 2029.  

Sources emphasized that Soni's decision to step down is not related to the recent controversy involving UPSC candidates accused of submitting fraudulent certificates to secure employment.  

According to sources, he submitted his resignation "long back".     

The UPSC has been embroiled in controversy following allegations against trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who allegedly forged identity papers to gain entry into the civil service. 

(ANI)