IAS Officer Puja Khedkar Faces Scrutiny: Allegations, Controversies, and Legal Tangles
Puja Khedkar, a probationary IAS officer, faces serious scrutiny and consequences following allegations of misusing her authority and privileges. She has been summoned back to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, and her training has been put on hold. This action marks a significant development in response to the controversy surrounding her.
Initially posted in Pune, Puja Khedkar was later transferred to Washim amidst accusations of manipulating disability and OBC certificates to secure her position in the civil services. The Maharashtra government’s General Administration Department has now instructed her to return to the academy immediately, by July 23 at the latest, for further necessary actions.
The authenticity of several certificates submitted by Khedkar to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), particularly those claiming visual impairment under the Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) category, is under investigation. Reports indicate that she missed multiple medical appointments between April and August 2022, adding to the controversy.
Recent revelations also suggest that her application for a disability certificate at Aundh government hospital in Pune was rejected after medical evaluations in August 2022. These developments have raised serious questions about the veracity of her claims and eligibility criteria during her civil services application process.
Puja Khedkar has faced accusations of demanding undue perks and privileges, including using a red beacon and a government sticker on her private Audi car and occupying the office of Pune Additional Collector Ajay More during his absence. She reportedly even relocated office furniture and requested official letterheads and a VIP number plate, typically not granted to junior officers under probation.
Amidst these allegations, the Union government has initiated a probe, appointing a one-member committee to verify her candidature and submit a report within two weeks. Concerns have been raised regarding her appointment under the OBC non-creamy layer category, especially after allegations surfaced regarding her father’s substantial assets exceeding the threshold for eligibility.
Puja Khedkar has defended herself, denouncing what she calls a “media trial” and asserting that she is a victim of misinformation. She has expressed willingness to cooperate with the expert committee investigating her case, emphasizing her commitment to presenting her side of the story and hoping for a fair resolution.
Additionally, Pune Police have been searching for her parents in connection with a criminal case. An FIR was filed against her mother, Manorama Khedkar, who serves as a village sarpanch, and five others following an incident captured in a video where she allegedly threatened individuals with a gun over a land dispute.
The situation surrounding Puja Khedkar continues to unfold, with ongoing investigations and legal proceedings shaping the future course of action regarding her probationary period and civil service career.
