A single-member panel appointed by the Center to investigate allegations against controversial IAS officer Puja Khedkar has completed its inquiry and submitted its findings to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The investigation, led by Manoj Dwivedi, an additional secretary in the DoPT, has revealed significant concerns about Khedkar’s eligibility and conduct.
Puja Khedkar, a 2023-batch trainee IAS officer, first drew public attention when Pune collector Suhas Diwase wrote to Maharashtra Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik. In his letter, Diwase flagged several demands made by Khedkar during her probation, which were deemed inappropriate and beyond her entitlement.
This complaint triggered a thorough investigation that unearthed further troubling details. Questions arose regarding how Khedkar managed to clear the rigorous selection process of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). It was discovered that she had availed herself of relaxations meant for physical disability and OBC candidacy. However, allegations surfaced suggesting that she might not have been eligible for these relaxations.
Khedkar now faces a criminal case for “misrepresenting and falsifying facts” in her application for civil service. The UPSC has issued a show-cause notice to potentially cancel her selection, and she may be barred from retaking the examination. Concurrently, the Delhi Police have filed a case against her, and an investigation is ongoing.
The controversy extends to Khedkar’s family as well. Her father, Dilip Khedkar, a former Maharashtra government officer, is currently embroiled in a corruption case and has faced suspension twice in the past for related charges, including extortion. Additionally, her mother, Manorama Khedkar, who serves as a sarpanch, has found herself in legal trouble after a video surfaced showing her brandishing a gun and threatening a group of people. She has since been arrested under the Arms Act.
READ MORE: Uttarakhand: CM Dhami Issues Alert To DM Amid Heavy Rainfall
