Puja Khedkar, a former IAS trainee officer, has recently become a focal point of controversy and legal scrutiny. Believed to have fled to Dubai, Khedkar’s move came after her anticipatory bail plea was rejected by a Delhi court on August 1st.
This drastic step was taken to evade arrest and the intense media attention surrounding her case.
Legal Troubles and Anticipatory Bail Rejection
Khedkar’s legal troubles began to mount when allegations about her misuse of disability and OBC status in her Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) candidature surfaced. As these allegations gained traction, she became untraceable, with her mobile phone switched off for weeks.
The situation escalated when the court denied her bail, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. Additional Sessions Judge Devender Kumar Jangala noted the seriousness of the charges, stating, “Custodial interrogation of the accused is required to unearth the whole conspiracy and to establish involvement of the other persons involved in conspiracy.”
Controversial UPSC Candidature and Debarment
Khedkar’s troubles worsened when the UPSC cancelled her provisional candidature and permanently debarred her from future exams and selections. This decision, announced on July 31st, followed a detailed examination of records, revealing that she had violated the civil services examination (CSE)-2022 Rules.
The UPSC found that she had availed more attempts than permitted, a discrepancy unique to her among over 15,000 candidates reviewed from 2009 to 2023.
Evading Responsibilities: Absence from Training Academy
Adding to her controversial profile, Khedkar failed to report to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie on July 23rd, despite being asked to do so amid rising controversies. Her absence further fueled speculations about her intentions and integrity.
The Root of the Issues: OBC Status and Disability Claims
Puja Khedkar’s selection for IAS came under intense scrutiny after allegations surfaced that she had manipulated her OBC status and disability claims. Her father, Dilip Khedkar, a former officer in the Maharashtra government, reportedly possessed property worth 40 crores, disqualifying her from the OBC non-creamy layer status.
Furthermore, she was accused of manipulating documents to appear for the UPSC examination multiple times, exploiting relaxed criteria meant for OBC candidates and persons with disabilities.
Immediate Impact: Transfer and Rising Problems
The controversy began in June when Pune Collector Suhas Diwase highlighted Khedkar’s demand for perks, including a car, staff, and an office, which she was not entitled to during her two-year probation. This led to her immediate transfer to Washim, marking the beginning of her escalating problems.
Puja Khedkar’s story is a complex narrative of ambition, controversy, and legal battles. From her early promise as an IAS trainee to the allegations of fraud and evasion, her journey reflects the challenges and repercussions of misusing privilege and power. As she continues to reside in Dubai, her case remains a poignant example of the intricate interplay between legal accountability and personal ambition.
Bio Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Puja Khedkar |
| Profession | Former IAS Trainee Officer |
| Known For | Controversial UPSC candidature, legal troubles |
| Legal Issues | Fraud, misuse of OBC status, multiple exam attempts |
| Current Status | Residing in Dubai |
| Key Development | Anticipatory bail denied, fled to Dubai |
| Ongoing Concerns | Potential extradition, legal proceedings |
Net Worth
Prior to her legal troubles, Puja Khedkar’s net worth was significant, reflecting her background and connections. However, the exact figures are not publicly disclosed. Her father’s reported property worth of 40 crores suggests a substantial family wealth. The ongoing legal issues and potential financial liabilities could impact her financial standing significantly.
Personal Life
Details about Puja Khedkar’s personal life remain sparse, as she has kept this aspect of her life private. Her focus has primarily been on her professional and legal battles, with little information available about her family or personal relationships.
Future Prospects
Puja Khedkar’s future remains uncertain. The ongoing legal proceedings in India and her current status in Dubai create a complex scenario with potential for significant repercussions. Her story underscores the delicate balance between ambition and accountability, resilience and controversy. As her case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the far-reaching consequences of legal and ethical transgressions.
