Allegations: Puja Khedkar, a probationary Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, is facing allegations of misusing the Other Backward Class (OBC) quota and the Persons with Benchmark Disability (PwBD) provision to secure her position in the civil services.
Controversies: There have been controversies surrounding Puja Khedkar, including reports of demands for separate office space, an official vehicle, and other privileges. These issues have drawn significant media attention.
Investigation: The Central government has constituted a committee to re-examine the documents submitted by Puja Khedkar during her civil services examination and subsequent selection into the IAS. The committee comprises government experts who will assess the validity of her claims.
Response: Puja Khedkar has stated that she will testify before the committee and believes that the truth will prevail through the investigation process. She emphasized the importance of respecting the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, criticizing any judgment through media trials.
Transfer: Recently, Puja Khedkar was transferred from Pune to Washim following allegations of high-handedness during her probationary period at the Pune district collectorate.
Family Background: Puja Khedkar’s father, Dilip Khedkar, is a retired bureaucrat who had contested Lok Sabha elections and declared significant assets, raising questions about Puja’s eligibility under the non-creamy layer criteria for OBC reservations.