Lagatar24 Desk
Pune: The Pune Traffic Police have seized an Audi car used by trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar, who is under scrutiny for alleged misuse of power. The vehicle, which was brought to the police station, had been equipped with an unauthorized red and blue beacon, a VIP number plate, and displayed “Maharashtra Government” without proper authorization, violating the Motor Vehicles Act.
In addition to these infractions, the vehicle has been fined Rs 26,000 for a total of 21 traffic violations, according to an official statement. On Saturday night, Khedkar’s family driver handed over the keys to the Chatushringi Traffic Police Station following a notice from the traffic police department. However, the required vehicle documents have yet to be submitted.
Puja Khedkar, a 34-year-old officer in the Maharashtra cadre, has come under fire for several alleged misdeeds. Besides the unauthorized use of government insignia and a beacon light on her private Audi, she has been accused of demanding special privileges not typically granted to probationary officers, such as a separate office, official vehicle, and staff.
The controversy extends to her appointment process, with allegations of misuse of disability and OBC quotas. Khedkar claimed non-creamy layer status to benefit from OBC quota advantages, despite documents showing her family possesses assets worth over ?60 crores. Additionally, she claimed visual impairment but reportedly skipped the mandatory physical examination six times.
Further allegations include aggressive behavior towards colleagues and attempted interference in police matters. Following a report by the Pune District Collector to the Chief Secretary, Khedkar has been transferred to Washim.
The central government has formed a panel to investigate the allegations against Khedkar and her UPSC recruitment process. According to an official statement to the news agency PTI, Khedkar may face termination from service if found guilty.
This unfolding scandal highlights the need for stringent adherence to rules and ethical conduct among public servants, particularly those in training for critical administrative roles. The ongoing investigation will determine the extent of Khedkar’s alleged misconduct and its consequences.
