In a significant move, the Maharashtra government has decided to relieve Dr. Puja Khedkar, an IAS Probationary Officer and Assistant Collector of Washim, from her field training. She has been ordered to report back to the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie. This decision comes in response to various complaints about her conduct and alleged discrepancies regarding her official documents.
Dr. Khedkar’s situation has raised eyebrows due to a series of controversies surrounding her behaviour as an IAS officer. The LBSNAA Deputy Director, Shelesh Nawal, has asked the state government to take immediate action, instructing that she be relieved from her duties and report to the academy by July 23. The background of this decision is a report submitted by the Maharashtra government, detailing several issues related to her certificates and other official papers.
The state’s Additional Chief Secretary, Nitin Gadre, communicated the decision to Khedkar, officially known as the Supernumerary Assistant Collector in Washim. The letter emphasised the importance of her prompt return to the academy for further evaluation and necessary actions regarding her training program. This program has now been put on hold following the concerns raised about her conduct during her District Training Program in Pune.
The controversy escalated after complaints emerged, particularly those highlighted by Pune activist Vinod Kumbhar through Right to Information (RTI) revelations. Just days before the recall, the Central government had established a one-man committee led by Manoj Dwivedi, an Additional Secretary in the Department of Personnel and Training, to investigate the charges against Dr. Khedkar. This committee is expected to present its findings soon.
The accusations against Dr. Khedkar are serious and varied. She is alleged to have submitted questionable documents related to her caste status and health conditions, which have come under scrutiny.
Furthermore, it is claimed that she made unauthorised demands, such as a beacon for her personal Audi A4 car, which was subsequently impounded. She reportedly used a government sticker on her vehicle and attempted to occupy an office designated for a senior official at the Pune Collectorate, actions that exceed her entitlements as a probationary officer.
Additionally, the scrutiny has extended to her family, with her mother, Manorama D. Khedkar, facing legal issues for allegedly threatening farmers with a firearm in an attempt to acquire their land. This incident reportedly took place last year. Furthermore, the Pune Municipal Corporation issued a notice to her regarding illegal constructions at her residence in Pune.
Dr. Khedkar’s father, Dilip K. Khedkar, a retired state government employee who previously ran for a parliamentary seat on a Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi ticket, is also facing allegations of accumulating significant wealth under suspicious circumstances. The president of the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, Prakash Ambedkar, has promised to take action against him.
This series of events highlights the challenges within the bureaucratic system and the importance of accountability among public servants. The recall of Dr. Khedkar from field training underscores the serious nature of the allegations against her. It raises questions about the integrity and conduct expected from IAS officers who are entrusted with significant responsibilities.
The LBSNAA’s decision to pause her training program reflects a commitment to maintaining high standards within the civil service. The ongoing investigations will likely play a crucial role in determining her future in the IAS. The government’s actions indicate a proactive approach to addressing misconduct and ensuring that the values of integrity and transparency are upheld.
As the situation unfolds, it is vital for the public to remain informed about the outcomes of the investigations and any subsequent actions taken by the authorities. The case serves as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance and ethical behaviour among those in positions of power.
The Maharashtra government's decision to recall Dr. Puja Khedkar from her field training is a significant step in addressing the serious allegations against her. As investigations proceed, the emphasis on accountability in public service remains paramount, reinforcing the trust that citizens place in their government officials.
The developments surrounding this case will be closely watched, as they may influence the future conduct and expectations of IAS officers in the state and beyond.
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