• Source:JND
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Puja Khedkar, the trainee Indian Administrative Services (IAS) officer at the epicentre of controversy over her alleged misrepresentation of facts in the UPSC selection process and misuse of official powers, could face stringent action if allegations against her are found to be true, reports stated on Friday. This comes as the central government launched a probe against her claims and in case the allegations proved to be true, Puja, a Maharashtra cadre officer-trainee, could be sacked.

Khedkar, a 2023 batch officer, raised controversy over her use of a red beacon over her personal Audi car and demanded separate accommodation and vehicle - privileges not available to IAS probationers. She was also accused of illegally taking over the office of an IAS officer at Pune Collectorate, while he was on leave.

However, days after the initial controversy, Puja Khedkar came under suspicion over her allegedly false claims in the UPSC recruitment process. She reportedly used a fake Other Backward Classes (OBC) certificate even though her parents had handsome financial resources. Moreover, she allegedly used the physical disability quota to clear the exam and skipped the medical tests at AIIMS Delhi.

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After she was caught up in fresh allegations, the central government formed a one-member panel to probe the allegations against her, News18 reported on Friday. The panel, headed by Manoj Dwivedi, additional secretary in the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), will submit the probe report in two weeks.

Puja Khedkar Might Face Dismissal From Services

Khedkar might be dismissed from the IAS if allegations against her are found true, NDTV reported, quoting sources. It further said that she may also face criminal action if the forgery of certificates is found to be true.

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Puja Khedkar Denies Comments

When asked to respond over the matter, Puja Khedkar remained tight-lipped and said that she was not authorised by the government to say anything on the matter. 

"I am not authorised to say anything to the media. I will give my submissions before the committee. I will follow the procedure," she said while speaking with media correspondents on Friday.

She was transferred to Washim by the Maharashtra government after the controversy came to the fore.