Puja Khedkar Case: Pune Civic body files notice for illegal encroachment

In a latest development involving IAS probationary officer Puja Khedkar, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a notice regarding illegal encroachment at her residence. According to PMC officials, unauthorized constructions obstructing public roads or footpaths under the corporation's jurisdiction were found at Khedkar's home.

Khedkar, a 2023-batch IAS officer posted in Maharashtra, has been at the center of controversy over alleged misuse of power and privileges. This notice from the PMC is part of broader scrutiny into her conduct during her probationary period.



The PMC's Encroachment Department typically initiates a process of issuing notices, conducting surveys, and potentially removing illegal structures if compliance is not met.

Simultaneously, a single-member committee constituted by the Centre is re-examining all documents submitted by Khedkar during her civil services examination. Officials have indicated that termination and criminal charges may result if any misrepresentation or manipulation in these documents is found.

"The officer may face termination if found guilty, along with potential criminal charges for misrepresentation in documents relied upon for her selection," said sources familiar with the matter.

Recently transferred to Washim District from Pune, where allegations of aggressive behavior and misuse of official privileges surfaced, Khedkar assumed her new role as assistant collector amidst ongoing scrutiny.

Khedkar's alleged misuse of benefits under disability and Other Backward Class (OBC) quotas to secure her position in the IAS has also come under intense investigation by the probe committee led by Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, additional secretary in the Department of Personnel and Training.

Following complaints from Pune's district collector about her behavior, including allegations of illegal occupation and misuse of official vehicles, Khedkar was transferred to Washim to avoid administrative complications.

In related developments, Pune's Regional Transport Office has issued notices to the private company owning the Audi car used by Khedkar, which reportedly displayed unauthorized government insignia.

Meanwhile, Navi Mumbai police reported an incident where Khedkar allegedly attempted to influence the release of a person arrested in a theft case, prompting further scrutiny.

Further complicating matters, a video surfaced showing Khedkar's mother, Manorama, brandishing a gun and threatening a farmer in a land dispute, leading to a police complaint and FIR under the Arms Act.

In response to these allegations, Dilip Khedkar, Puja's father, defended her actions, dismissing the accusations as baseless harassment.

"My daughter has not committed any wrongdoing. Is it wrong for a woman to request a workspace?" Dilip Khedkar asserted, refraining from speculating on the motives behind the controversy.

The unfolding situation underscores broader concerns about ethics and transparency within India's civil service, raising significant questions about accountability and the integrity of administrative processes.