Puja Khedkar, a former IAS trainee whose Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) candidacy was recently cancelled amid controversy, has come forward with a detailed letter accusing Pune Collector Suhas Diwase of subjecting her to ongoing insults since the beginning of her training. The letter, dated July 11 and addressed to the Additional Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, reveals Khedkar’s distress over her treatment.
According to The Indian Express, Khedkar’s letter was written in response to complaints made by Diwase regarding her alleged “entitled behavior,” which has been exacerbated by media coverage. In the letter, Khedkar expressed her deep concern over the negative image she has developed due to these allegations, which she claims have caused her significant mental trauma.
Khedkar recounted an incident where she was accused of removing a senior official’s nameplate from the Pune Collectorate’s ante-chamber, where she was reportedly working. She explained that Additional Collector Ajay More had offered the space for her use, and his staff had set it up accordingly. However, when Diwase returned and discovered her arrangement, he ordered the removal of her furniture. Khedkar noted that despite her attempts to clarify the situation and even offer an apology, Diwase refused to listen and continued to subject her to insults.
Diwase has denied these allegations, dismissing them as “nonsensical.” He has stated that Khedkar’s complaints are unfounded and that her claims do not reflect the true nature of their interactions.
The controversy surrounding Khedkar intensified when reports emerged of her alleged misuse of power, including the use of her private Audi car equipped with a red-blue beacon light and a VIP number plate. It was also reported that Khedkar demanded various facilities, including a separate cabin and a peon, before officially commencing her duties. Her father’s intervention, as per allegations, further fueled the situation.
Khedkar’s case has sparked considerable discussion about the expectations and behavior of civil servants and the handling of complaints within administrative circles. The issue remains under scrutiny as Khedkar continues to seek redressal and clarity regarding her treatment and the allegations against her.
Sources By Agencies