Pune police took action on Sunday by confiscating a private luxury car that belonged to trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar, amidst allegations of misusing her certificates and authority. The Audi car, which was used by the 34-year-old probationary IAS officer, had a red beacon light and ‘Maharashtra Government’ written on it without permission. This led to the vehicle being brought to the Chaturshrangi Police Station and barricaded for further investigation. Authorities issued a notice against the unauthorized use of the beacon and name sign on the sedan, which ultimately led to the confiscation of the car. Following the scrutiny, the car’s documents will be checked to delve into the matter deeply.
The controversy surrounding Puja Khedkar intensified after her demands for facilities beyond the norm for probationary officers came to light. Allegations of using fake disability and OBC certificates to clear the civil services exam have put her under the government’s radar. Amidst these allegations, the central government has set up a single-member committee to verify her candidature claims and investigate the alleged misuse of power as a civil servant. This committee, chaired by a senior officer of the Additional Secretary rank under the Central Government, is expected to submit its report within two weeks.
Puja Khedkar’s actions have caused significant uproar within administrative circles, with questions arising about her conduct as a probationary officer. From demands for special privileges to utilizing a luxury car with unauthorized markings, her case has attracted national attention. The transfer of Khedkar from Pune to Washim following the complaints illustrates the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the matter. As the investigation unfolds, the public eagerly awaits the findings of the committee regarding the allegations against the controversial IAS trainee.
