Puja Khedkar, a probationary officer of the 2022 IAS batch, commenced her role as assistant collector at the Washim District Collectorate in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region amid ongoing controversy.
Khedkar, who faced allegations of using unlawful means to clear her civil services exam, including misuse of disability and OBC quotas, transferred from Pune following administrative issues.
"I am happy to join duty at the Washim District Collectorate and am looking forward to working here," Khedkar stated, declining to comment further on the accusations against her due to government restrictions.
Previously known for her use of a luxurious Audi with a beacon, Khedkar arrived in Washim in a more modest Bolero provided by the district administration.
In Pune, police visited her residence to inspect the Audi amid reports of beacon and VIP number violations, finding the gates locked and encountering resistance from her family.
Her transfer to Washim came after Pune district collector Suhas Diwase recommended relocation to prevent "administrative complications," citing concerns over her behavior towards colleagues and alleged violations.
Washim district collector Buveneswari S confirmed Khedkar's arrival for training, emphasizing her engagement with various government departments during this probationary period.
The controversy has drawn attention from the Prime Minister’s Office, prompting an inquiry requested by the Pune collector.
Khedkar, a 2023 batch IAS officer of the Maharashtra cadre, remains under scrutiny for multiple allegations, complicating her entry into administrative duties at Washim.
The unfolding saga underscores ongoing challenges in the bureaucratic landscape, where scrutiny of officials' conduct and adherence to rules remains paramount.
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