Probationary IAS Officer Puja Khedkar Facing Scrutiny Over Alleged Misuse of Power

A recent controversy has emerged surrounding probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who is currently under scrutiny for alleged misuse of power and privileges in Pune, Maharashtra. This issue has led to a series of investigations and actions by various governmental bodies.

Following alleged demands for separate office space, a car, and a house before assuming her role as Assistant Collector in Pune, Khedkar has faced backlash for her actions. Her father, Dilip Khedkar, has defended her, stating that requesting a space to sit is not a mistake.

Moreover, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials have issued a notice of illegal encroachment at Khedkar’s residence, further complicating the situation. The PMC’s Encroachment Department cited unauthorized construction or obstructions on public roads or footpaths within their jurisdiction.

Further intensifying the scrutiny, a single-member committee led by Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, additional secretary in the Department of Personnel and Training, has been tasked with re-examining all documents related to Khedkar’s civil services examination and subsequent selection as an IAS officer.

Khedkar’s tenure in Pune was marred by various allegations, including aggressive treatment of staff, placing a red beacon on a private Audi car, and alleged misuse of the disability and OBC quota to secure her position. These controversies have led to her transfer to the Washim District Collectorate in the Vidarbha region.

In a separate incident, Navi Mumbai Police reported that Khedkar attempted to influence the release of a man in a theft case, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing investigations. Additionally, a video surfaced showing her mother, Manorama Khedkar, brandishing a gun in a land dispute case, leading to a separate case being filed.