Controversial IAS Probationer of Maharashtra, Puja Khedkar Faces Scrutiny

Maharashtra: IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, embroiled in multiple controversies, responded to the Centre’s decision to set up a panel to investigate her candidature. Khedkar stated she is not authorized to speak to the media and will present her submissions to the appointed panel. “I am not authorized to say anything to the media. I will give my submissions before the committee. I will follow the procedure,” Khedkar told ANI.

Allegations and Controversies with Puja Khedkar

Khedkar is under scrutiny for allegedly securing her selection through the Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) quota and Other Backward Class (OBC) category, despite reportedly having an annual income of ₹42 lakh. Details from the Department of Personnel and Training (DOPT) portal reveal she owns seven immovable properties, including plots and a flat, luxury cars, gold, diamonds, and has partnerships in two private companies. Her father, retired bureaucrat Dilip Khedkar, disclosed these assets in his election affidavit.

Disciplinary Issues of Puja Khedkar

While serving as an IAS probationer in the Pune district collectorate, Khedkar allegedly demanded a separate cabin and official car, occupied the additional collector’s ante chamber, and unauthorizedly used an amber beacon on her personal car. District Collector Suhas Diwase claimed Khedkar’s father threatened administrative officials. Additionally, Khedkar purportedly pressured a deputy police commissioner to release a transporter involved in a steel theft case.

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Family Controversies

A video surfaced showing Khedkar’s mother, Manorama, brandishing a firearm and threatening villagers over a disputed land in Mulshi taluka, Pune district. The video, which caused a stir among IAS officers, led to an FIR against Manorama under the Arms Act. Pune Rural Police confirmed the registration of the FIR and began an investigation into the legality of the firearm.

Land Dispute

The Khedkars bought land in Mulshi from a Jain family, which originally belonged to the Pasalkar family. Kuldeep Pasalkar, involved in the altercation, claimed the land was never sold to anyone and accused the Khedkars of illegal construction. Manorama’s lawyer defended her actions, citing self-defense and the ongoing legal dispute over the land’s ownership.

Government Response

The Union government formed a single-member committee to verify Khedkar’s candidature and other details. The committee, chaired by an additional secretary-ranked officer, will submit its report within two weeks. This decision follows allegations that Khedkar posed as an OBC non-creamy layer candidate and claimed disabilities without verification.

The unfolding investigation and the committee’s findings will determine Khedkar’s future in the IAS, as the controversies surrounding her continue to escalate.