Puja Khedkar’s IAS Training Put On Hold Amid Row Over Selection

Pune: The training of probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar in Maharashtra has been put on hold following allegations of certificate forgery. The Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie has recalled Khedkar, currently serving as Super Numerary Assistant Collector in Washim, to report back by July 23.

This decision comes in the wake of accusations that Khedkar misused disability and Other Backward Class quotas to secure her position in the civil services. The controversy began when Khedkar reportedly requested special privileges beyond her designation from the Pune Collector’s office, leading to her transfer to Washim.

Further investigation revealed discrepancies in Khedkar’s UPSC selection process. She allegedly claimed visual impairment and mental illness to obtain concessions during the examination, enabling her to achieve an All India Rank of 821 despite low marks.

In response to the allegations, the Centre has formed a committee to verify Khedkar’s candidature.

Khedkar maintains her innocence, stating she will address all accusations before the committee and emphasizing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

Her father, Dilip Khedkar, a retired administrative officer, has also defended her. However, he faces separate allegations of pressuring the District Collector’s office to meet his daughter’s demands.

Adding to the family’s legal troubles, Pune Police are investigating a case against Khedkar’s mother for allegedly threatening farmers with a pistol. The family is reportedly evading authorities, with three teams formed to locate them.