Key Highlights:
- Pooja Khedkar, an IAS probationer, faces controversy for demanding privileges not accorded to trainees.
- Transferred from Pune to Washim by the Maharashtra government.
- Allegations include misuse of red-blue beacon lights, letter pads, a nameplate, a separate office chamber, and dedicated staff.
Who is Pooja Khedkar?
Pooja Khedkar is an IAS trainee officer from the 2023 batch, having secured rank 821 (PWD-5) in the UPSC exams. She drew significant attention for allegedly using red-blue beacon lights on her private vehicle, letter pads, a nameplate, a separate office chamber, and dedicated staff, despite not being entitled to these privileges as a probationer.
Controversial Actions and Transfer:
Khedkar’s actions have led to unrest within the administration, culminating in her transfer from Pune to Washim. The transfer order, signed by S M Mahadik, assistant secretary of the Maharashtra government, cited administrative reasons for the decision. Reports suggest that she may have occupied the ante-chamber of Additional District Collector Ajay More without his knowledge, adding to the controversy.
Background and Family:
Pooja Khedkar comes from a family with a strong administrative background. Her father, former civil servant Dilip Khedkar, served as Commissioner of the Pollution Department, and her maternal grandfather, Jagannathrao Budhwant, had a distinguished career as an IAS officer.
Merit Under Speculation:
Khedkar’s entry into the administrative service has also been mired in controversy. Initially denied appointment on February 2, 2022, she filed an affidavit asserting that she was visually impaired and mentally ill. Despite failing to appear for multiple medical examinations, her appointment was eventually approved in 2023 under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Questions About Eligibility:
Khedkar became an IAS officer from the OBC non-creamy layer category. However, her father’s election affidavit shows his income and wealth as ₹40 crores, raising questions about her eligibility for the non-creamy layer category. Additionally, she admitted to being mentally ill and having multiple disabilities but skipped medical examinations several times.
Inconsistencies in Personal Information:
A mock interview video of Pooja Khedkar has surfaced, in which she mentions that her parents are separated and that she resides with her mother. This contrasts with her father’s election affidavit, which did not mention any separation. This inconsistency has further fueled the controversies surrounding her.
Conclusion:
The controversies surrounding Pooja Khedkar have led to significant administrative actions, including her transfer from Pune to Washim. Her actions and the questions about her eligibility and personal background have sparked widespread debate and scrutiny within the administrative circles and beyond.
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