📷 Image Credits: The Hindu
In a recent development, the Pune police confiscated a luxury car used by controversial probationary IAS officer Pooja Khedkar for illegally installing a red beacon light on it. The car, an Audi, was registered under a city-based private company and was used by Khedkar during her posting in Pune. The registered owner’s address was mentioned as Shivane village in Haveli taluka.
The 34-year-old Ms. Khedkar came under scrutiny for various demands, including a separate cabin and staff during her tenure in Pune. She was also accused of misusing the disability and Other Backward Class (OBC) quota to secure her position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS). Additionally, she was found to have used a red beacon light on the Audi and display ‘Maharashtra Government’ on the vehicle without authorization.
The controversy surrounding Ms. Khedkar led to her transfer from Pune to Washim district before the completion of her training. The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) issued a notice against the unauthorized use of the beacon and name sign on the car. Subsequently, the car was confiscated by the authorities, and an investigation is underway to verify the documentation.
Moreover, the Audi in question had accumulated 21 challans amounting to ₹27,000 for traffic violations, with the penalties duly paid. As per the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) 1989, only specific government officials are allowed to use red or amber beacon lights on their vehicles. The State Government holds the authority to grant permission for such usage to VIPs, VVIPs, and government officials.
The incident has raised questions about the misuse of privileges and features on official vehicles and the potential repercussions faced by public servants found guilty of such violations. Stay tuned to HeadlineFly.com for further updates on this developing story.
