Probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar finds herself at the center of a controversy after her WhatsApp messages demanding a separate cabin and staff went viral on social media. The situation escalated when photos of her private Audi car using a red-blue beacon and a “Maharashtra Government” board surfaced, leading to further scrutiny.
The Viral Messages
In the messages exchanged with the Pune Collector’s office, Khedkar repeatedly inquired about the status of her office, accommodation, and government vehicle. On May 23, she messaged, “Any update about accommodation, travel, cabin, etc?” The following day, she followed up with, “Kindly respond. It’s important.”
When her calls went unanswered, she sent another message asking, “If there was any problem in calling back?” Four days later, she insisted, “Pls get the designated cabin n vehicle done before I join on 3rd. Later there will be no time. If it is not possible let me know, I will talk to collector sir accordingly…”
Transfer to Washim District
Amidst the controversy, Khedkar was transferred to Washim district to complete her remaining training term. According to the official letter, the 2023-batch IAS officer will serve as a “supernumerary assistant collector” in Washim until July 30, 2025.
Allegations and Controversy
Khedkar is facing multiple allegations, including lying about her visual and mental disabilities and her OBC background. RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar has raised questions about her appointment, alleging that she did not qualify for the OBC non-creamy layer and that her father had assets worth ₹40 crore.
Collector’s Report
In a report submitted to the General Administration Department, Pune collector Suhas Diwse detailed Khedkar’s persistent demands even before joining duty on June 3. The report stated that:
- She repeatedly demanded a separate cabin, car, residential quarters, and a peon.
- She was informed that probationary officers are not entitled to these facilities, though accommodation would be provided.
- Allowing her to continue her training in Pune was deemed inappropriate.
- She allegedly removed the nameplate of a senior official at the Pune collector’s office to use his ante-chamber as her office.
Conclusion
Puja Khedkar, who secured an All India rank of 821 in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, now faces significant scrutiny and a transfer amid these controversies. The viral WhatsApp messages and the allegations against her have sparked widespread discussion about the conduct and entitlement of probationary officers.
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