Puja Khedkar is a 2023-batch IAS officer from Maharashtra who secured an all-India rank (AIR) of 841 in the UPSC exam. She hails from a family dedicated to public service; her father, Dilip Khedkar, is a retired administrative officer. Despite her promising career start, her recent actions have put her under scrutiny.
What is the controversy surrounding Puja Khedkar
Puja Khedkar found herself embroiled in controversy over the misuse of power. She was using a private Audi car adorned with a “Government of Maharashtra” sticker and a red-blue beacon, privileges reserved for senior officials.
This misuse of authority led to her transfer from Pune to Washim. Additionally, before even joining as an assistant collector, she demanded several entitlements such as an official car with a VIP number plate, accommodation, an official chamber with staff, and a constable, which a trainee officer is not entitled to.
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Reports suggest her father used his influence to pressure the District Collector’s office to meet his daughter’s demands. This influence was also evident in her workplace behaviour, where she allegedly removed the nameplate of a senior officer, Ajay More, at the Pune collector’s office to use the space for herself. These actions were deemed a misuse of power, resulting in her transfer.
Questionable OBC Claim
Puja Khedkar claimed to be from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, which has an income cap of Rs 8 lakh per annum for the non-creamy layer certificate. However, her father’s election affidavit revealed assets worth Rs 40 crore and an annual income of Rs 43 lakh, raising questions about her eligibility as an OBC candidate.
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Khedkar also claimed multiple disabilities, including a learning disability, and sought special accommodations during her UPSC examination. However, she did not disclose the nature or extent of her disabilities.
Puja Khedkar has been transferred to Washim, where she will serve as a supernumerary assistant collector until July 30, 2025. Her actions and the subsequent transfer have drawn significant attention and criticism.
