The Government of India has directed the Maharashtra administration to scrutinize the OBC non-creamy layer (NCL) certificate of Solapur Municipal Commissioner and IAS officer Sachin Chhaganlal Ombase (2015 batch), following allegations from activist Vijay Kumbhar that he used a potentially invalid certificate to secure additional UPSC exam attempts .
Allegations
Ombase, originally appearing in the general category, exhausted the allowed four UPSC attempts before reportedly obtaining an OBC-NCL certificate—apparently to avail up to seven attempts and clear the exam on his fifth try
Kumbhar alleges the certificate was procured unlawfully by “hiding facts, submitting false information, and pressuring officials”
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Official Response & Next Steps
The DoPT, via a letter dated June 13, 2025, to Maharashtra Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, referred the case to the state’s General Administration Department (GAD), led by ACS V. Radha, directing them to verify the certificate’s authenticity and report their findings.
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Ombase has stated he possesses valid documentation and will fully cooperate, making all papers available as required.
GAD officials have confirmed the inquiry has begun, with a detailed report to follow.
Context & Implications
This follows a similar case last year involving forged disability and OBC certificates by a probationary IAS officer.
Experts emphasize that such probes are essential to preserve the integrity of India’s reservation framework and ensure fairness in competitive exams.
What Lies Ahead
The GAD is expected to conduct a multi-tiered verification involving:
Evaluation of Ombase’s submitted certificates
Confirmation from issuing authorities
Cross-checking of academic and service documents
Depending on the findings, the Maharashtra government may initiate administrative or legal proceedings if discrepancies are uncovered.
