A Rising Star’s Tarnished Trajectory
The meteoric rise of probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar has taken a scandalous turn, as allegations of disability fraud and misuse of power cast a shadow over her promising career. Khedkar, initially lauded for her achievement in the civil services examination, now faces scrutiny for claiming visual and mental impairments to gain unfair advantages.
The Deception Unmasked: Khedkar’s Dubious Disability Claims
In a shocking revelation, Khedkar’s affidavit submitted to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) claims she is both visually impaired and mentally ill. These disabilities, if genuine, would have granted her special concessions during the grueling examination process. However, Khedkar’s subsequent refusal to undergo medical verification raises serious doubts about the veracity of her claims.
Missed Medical Appointments: A Pattern of Evasion
Khedkar’s alleged deception unraveled as she repeatedly failed to attend mandatory medical examinations at prestigious institutions like AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. Her excuses ranged from a conveniently timed COVID-19 diagnosis to unexplained absences, further fueling suspicions.
A Privileged Background Under Scrutiny
Adding fuel to the fire, inconsistencies in Khedkar’s claims of belonging to the Other Backward Classes (OBC) non-creamy layer category have emerged. Her father, Dilip Khedkar, a former politician with considerable wealth, raises questions about her eligibility for the benefits associated with this category.
Lavish Lifestyle and Allegations of Misconduct
Khedkar’s extravagant lifestyle, including a private Audi with VIP plates and a “Maharashtra government” insignia, has drawn the ire of critics. Allegations of demanding perks and privileges beyond her entitlement as a probationary officer have further tarnished her reputation.
The Fallout: A Career in Crisis
The controversy surrounding Khedkar has led to her transfer from Pune to Washim, where she will serve as a supernumerary assistant collector. The Maharashtra government’s decision to act upon complaints of power misuse highlights the gravity of the situation.
A Shadow of Doubt: Public Trust Betrayed?
As the investigation into Khedkar’s actions unfolds, the scandal raises questions about the integrity and fairness of India’s civil service examination process. The public’s trust in the system is at stake, as they grapple with the possibility that privilege and deception may have paved the way for Khedkar’s success. The truth behind her meteoric rise and sudden fall from grace remains to be seen.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
