The allegation levelled on a 2023 batch IAS officer from Maharashtra cadre by the name Puja Khedkar after she misused her power and privileges included demand for separate office and official car as well as unauthorized use of red beacon lights on a private vehicle. Additionally, there are questions being raised about her OBC status.
In order to ascertain the above allegations the central government has formed one-man committee to examine the candidature of Khedkar and other related details. In case of guiltiness she can be dismissed besides having criminal charges leveled against her for any distortion or manipulation of any facts relating to her selection process.
Key Developments Puja Khedkar row IAS
- Potential Termination and Criminal Charges: Official sources have indicated that Khedkar may be terminated and face criminal charges if found guilty.
- Single-Member Probe Committee: The central government has constituted a committee led by an Additional Secretary to verify Khedkar’s candidature claims and other details within two weeks.
- Viral Video of Khedkar’s Mother: A video showing Khedkar’s mother threatening individuals with a gun has surfaced, prompting a police investigation into the incident.
- Land Dispute Allegations: A farmer has accused Khedkar’s mother of attempting to forcefully seize his land and threatening others with a firearm.
- Transfer to Washim District: After allegedly bullying colleagues in their Pune offices while also misusing official privileges, she was transferred to Washim District Collectorate
- Notice to Private Company: The RTO has issued a notice to the owner of the Audi car used by Khedkar for illegally installing a red beacon light and displaying ‘Maharashtra Government’ on it.
- Khedkar’s Refusal to Comment: Khedkar has declined to comment on the ongoing probe, citing government rules.
- Allegations of Fake Certificates: Khedkar is accused of submitting fake disability and Other Backward Class (OBC) certificates to clear the civil services exam.
- Failure to Report for Medical Verification: Khedkar did not report for medical verification of her disability certificate at AIIMS Delhi in 2022, citing Covid infection.
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The matter is being investigated and the result will decide whether or not Khedkar continues with her future in Indian Administrative Service.