Amidst ongoing controversy over the alleged misuse of power by 2022-batch probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar, the central government has established a one-member committee to investigate the matter. This committee will probe accusations related to fake certificates and scrutinize the selection process during her interview. Additionally, the IAS Academy will review her conduct during her probationary period.
The investigation will be conducted by a senior officer of the rank of additional secretary to the Government of India. The committee is expected to submit its report within two weeks, according to top government sources.
Simultaneously, the Pune traffic police have issued a notice to Khedkar after taking action against her for using an amber beacon on her personal Audi car, which was labeled ‘Government of Maharashtra.’ Legal action was initiated under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act for traffic violations, and a challan remains unpaid.
Senior Police Inspector Shafeel Pathan from the Chatushringi traffic division in Pune City stated, “We have received information that you are using the said private vehicle. However, it should be noted that the said private vehicle should be presented at the Chaturshringi Transport Department along with the necessary documents for further legal inspection.”
The controversy revolves around accusations that Khedkar improperly utilized a personal Audi car equipped with VIP registration and emergency lights, marked ‘Maharashtra Government.’ Guidelines generally restrict probationary civil servants from using certain perks and privileges.
On Thursday, police arrived at Khedkar’s residence to gather details about the ownership and purchase of the Audi car. They are also investigating how she obtained permission for the beacon. Police sources mentioned a fine of Rs 21,000 for traffic violations against Khedkar’s vehicle.
Additionally, Khedkar allegedly submitted fake disability and Other Backward Class (OBC) certificates to clear the civil services exam. Following complaints of power misuse, she was recently transferred from Pune to Washim.
The controversy has sparked reactions from various political figures. Vijay Wadettiwar, Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra State Assembly, demanded an inquiry into the selection process and the authenticity of the medical certificates. BJP MLA Nitesh Rane assured that the government would take necessary action if any wrongdoing is identified. Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora termed the allegations an “occupational hazard” and called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation to maintain public trust in the administrative service.
“The allegations against IAS officer Puja Khedkar are a serious reputational hazard to the service. Are you in government to serve or due to a sense of entitlement? I urge Maharashtra’s Chief Secretary to conduct a comprehensive & impartial investigation into these allegations without delay. Ensuring justice & preserving public trust in our administrative service is crucial. UPSC is known for producing high-caliber officers for #PublicService. Those lacking merit and ethics are not fit to hold important public offices,” Deora stated in a social media post.
