In a developing controversy, 23-year-old trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar has accused Pune Collector Suhas Divase of harassment, sparking a tumultuous investigation and public scrutiny. Ms. Khedkar, part of the 2023-batch, faces a slew of allegations including misrepresentation of her OBC status and misuse of privileges such as using a siren and government insignia on her private Audi sedan.
The situation escalated as Ms. Khedkar, who was recently appointed Assistant Collector in Pune’s Washim district before being recalled, alleged harassment by Mr. Divase. She has been directed to return to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Uttarakhand amidst ongoing investigations into her conduct.
Reports indicate that Ms. Khedkar’s troubles began with accusations that she falsely claimed disabilities—both physical and mental—to secure a position in the civil services. Allegations also suggest she leveraged her position to demand perks beyond her entitlement as a probationary officer.
The controversy deepened with the emergence of WhatsApp chats between Ms. Khedkar and an unidentified individual from Mr. Divase’s office, discussing demands for office arrangements and a government vehicle, which are typically not provided to probationary officers.
Authorities have launched an investigation, including a one-member panel, to probe the allegations against Ms. Khedkar. Recent developments reveal discrepancies in her medical records related to disability claims, adding to the scrutiny surrounding her appointment.
Ms. Khedkar’s parents have also been embroiled in legal matters related to her case, further complicating the situation. Despite earlier silence citing government rules, Ms. Khedkar has recently spoken out against what she describes as a “media trial” surrounding her actions.
Sources By Agencies