Lagatar24 Desk
Pune: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) of Pune Police is investigating Dilip Khedkar, father of trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar, in a corruption case, following allegations of possessing assets disproportionate to his income. Dilip Khedkar, a retired Maharashtra government officer, and his wife Manorama have reportedly become unreachable after initial questioning by the ACB.
The complaint against Dilip Khedkar was filed by Tanaji Gambhir, who provided a detailed 47-page document listing various properties, cars, and businesses owned by the Khedkars. According to Gambhir, the ACB questioned Dilip Khedkar on July 11, 12, and 13, shortly after which both Dilip and Manorama Khedkar disappeared. Manorama Khedkar, a village head (sarpanch), is also involved in a separate case where she is seen threatening people with a pistol in a video.
The investigation into the family’s assets has intensified alongside a probe into 34-year-old Puja Khedkar’s selection as an IAS officer. Questions arose when it was discovered that Puja had claimed reservations as a person with a disability and as an OBC candidate without proper verification.
Senior ACB officer Atul Tambe confirmed the existence of a complaint against Dilip Khedkar, adding that a comprehensive report has been submitted to headquarters for further action. The family’s scrutiny began after Pune district collector Suhas Diwase alerted Maharashtra Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik about Puja Khedkar’s demands for unauthorized perks.
Puja Khedkar’s reservation claims came under suspicion when it was revealed that her father had declared assets worth Rs 40 crore in a Lok Sabha election affidavit, far exceeding the income limits for OBC reservation benefits. RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar highlighted discrepancies in the affidavits, further fueling the investigation.
As the Centre orders an investigation into Puja Khedkar’s IAS selection, her training has been suspended. Pune Police continue to probe the video involving Manorama Khedkar, while the ACB delves deeper into Dilip Khedkar’s financial affairs.
