More trouble for IAS officer Puja Khedkar: Centre forms single-member panel to probe case, Pune police send notice over red lights on car, unpaid fines | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: The Centre has formed a single member Commission to investigate the candidacy claims and details of IAS Officer Puja Khedkarwho is embroiled in a controversy over her appointment and conduct as a probationary officer.
The committee, chaired by a senior official at the level of Additional Secretary, has been directed to verify Khedkar’s claims and background within the next two weeks.
Khedkar, an IAS officer of the 2023 batch, came under fire over allegations that she did not meet the eligibility criteria for the OBC non-creamy layer and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) categories under which she appeared in the UPSC exam.
Concerns have also been raised over her wealth and assets, which include 110 acres of agricultural land, 6 plots of land, 7 apartments, 900 grams of gold and diamonds, a gold watch worth Rs 17 lakh, 4 luxury cars and real estate worth Rs 17 crore.
Her father, a retired government employee from Maharashtra, also owns assets worth over Rs 40 crore.
The controversy escalated after Khedkar, while on probation, made a series of demands for special privileges like a separate hut, an official car and dedicated staff, which were rejected by the administration. She was eventually transferred from Pune to Washim district before completing her training.
The investigation of the one-member committee is expected to shed light on the legitimacy of Khedkar’s appointment and the allegations surrounding her conduct and wealth. The report, which is due within two weeks, will be crucial in determining the appropriate course of action in the matter.

Police report about beacon, unpaid fine

Meanwhile, the Pune traffic police have issued a warning to Khedkar for allegedly placing an orange flashing light on her car.
It is alleged that Khedkar’s four-wheeler has an orange flashing light on the front and ‘Government of Maharashtra’ is written on it.
“Legal action has been initiated against the said private vehicle under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicle Act. It has also been found that action has been initiated against the said vehicle for violating traffic rules earlier. The said fine is also pending without payment of compensation,” said Shafeel Pathan, Senior Police Inspector, Chatushringi Traffic Division, Pune City.
He said the private vehicle along with necessary documents should be submitted to the Chaturshringi Transport Department for further legal inspection.