Amid the ongoing controversy over “misuse of power” by 2022-batch probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar, the central government has formed a one-member committee to look into the matter. The panel will probe allegations related to fake certificates and scrutiny at the time of her interview, while the IAS Academy will additionally look into her conduct during probation.
The joint secretary level one-member committee, which will be chaired by a senior officer of the rank of additional secretary to the Government of India, will submit the investigation report in two weeks’ time, top government sources told News18.
The Pune traffic police, meanwhile, sent a notice to Puja after initiating action against her on the use of an amber beacon on her personal Audi car, with ‘Government of Maharashtra’ written on it. A legal action was taken against the vehicle under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act and for violating traffic rules earlier, for which a challan is yet to be paid, the notice said.
“We have received information that you are using the said private vehicle. However, it should be noted that the said private vehicle should be presented at the Chaturshringi Transport Department along with the necessary documents for further legal inspection,” said senior police inspector Shafeel Pathan, Chatushringi traffic division in Pune City.
Police sources further said action there is a fine of Rs 21,000 for violation of traffic rules against Khedkar’s vehicle.
WHAT IS THE CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING TRAINEE IAS OFFICER PUJA KHEDKAR?
The controversy is centred around accusations that she improperly utilised a personal Audi car equipped with VIP registration and emergency lights — a vehicle marked ‘Maharashtra Government’.
Guidelines typically restrict probationary civil servants from availing of certain perks and privileges.
Police on Thursday arrived at Puja’s residence to seek details of the Audi car regarding its ownership and purchase. They are also trying to determine how did she secure permission for the beacon.