Wed, 01 January 2025 10:38:52pm
The case of IAS probationer Pooja Khedkar has taken India by storm, with accusations of misconduct, fraudulent documentation, and even a gun-wielding confrontation. Here’s everything you need to know about this unfolding drama.
The intriguing case of Pooja Khedkar, a probationary Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the 2023 batch, has sparked significant controversy and public interest. The Maharashtra cadre officer is facing severe allegations, including misuse of her official position and falsifying disability and caste certificates to clear the civil services exam. This scandal has not only put her career at risk but has also brought her family under scrutiny.
Pooja Khedkar's troubles began when Pune Collector Suhas Diwase accused her of several acts of misconduct. These included using a private car fitted with a red beacon light and demanding special privileges such as a separate office, an official vehicle, and staff – perks not typically accorded to trainee officers. The gravity of these allegations led to her immediate transfer from Pune to the Washim district.
The Central Government has responded to these allegations by forming a single-member committee to investigate the veracity of Ms. Khedkar’s IAS candidature claims. This committee is tasked with verifying the legitimacy of her disability and caste certificates, which are central to her qualifying for the civil services.
Adding to the scandal, Pooja Khedkar's mother, Manorama Khedkar, who is the sarpanch of Bhalgaon village in Ahmednagar, is embroiled in a separate controversy. A viral video from 2023 shows her brandishing a pistol at a farmer during a heated dispute over a plot of land. This led the Pune Police to issue a show-cause notice to Ms. Manorama Khedkar, questioning why her gun license should not be revoked.
Primary Allegations: Misuse of official position, falsifying disability and caste certificates
Accusations by Pune Collector: Using a private car with a red beacon light, demanding separate office, vehicle, and staff privileges
Central Government Action: Formation of a single-member committee to investigate candidature claims
Mother’s Involvement: Viral video showing her threatening a farmer with a gun during a land dispute
Police Action: Show-cause notice issued to Manorama Khedkar; private luxury sedan confiscated from Pooja Khedkar
The controversy surrounding Pooja Khedkar has highlighted issues of integrity and accountability within the Indian Administrative Service. The allegations of falsifying documents to secure a position of power are particularly concerning, raising questions about the robustness of the selection and verification processes.
The case is a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and ethical conduct in public service. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen what repercussions will follow for Pooja Khedkar and her family.