Pune Police to Act Against IAS Officer's Audi Amid Misuse Allegations

Pune Police will examine an Audi used by probationary IAS officer Pooja Khedkar following allegations of misuse of authority. Khedkar, transferred to Washim, is accused of using unauthorized facilities. Her father, a retired officer, allegedly influenced the District Collector’s office to meet her demands.

In a significant development, Pune Police are set to take action against an Audi vehicle associated with probationary IAS officer Pooja Khedkar amidst allegations of misuse of authority. Transferred from Pune to Washim district, Khedkar faces accusations of availing facilities beyond her entitlement.

Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, speaking to ANI, confirmed, "We are here to take action. Although the gate is closed, we will proceed with the investigation once it opens. The Pune Police will examine the Audi car under the Motor Vehicles Act." Kumar emphasized the illegality of using a beacon on a private car and noted that pending challans would also be addressed.

Senior Officer Shafeel Pathan stated, "We will act in accordance with the Motor Vehicle Act. The car has 21 pending challans. It's illegal to mark 'Maharashtra government' on a private vehicle. We are attempting to contact the concerned parties via WhatsApp and other means."

Khedkar, who secured an All India rank of 821 in the UPSC exams, allegedly misused her position as an assistant collector in Pune. Accusations include using a red-blue beacon and "Maharashtra Government" board on her private car, occupying unauthorized office space, and requesting unapproved facilities.

Pune Collector Suhas Divase's letter to the Chief Secretary of Maharashtra led to Khedkar's transfer to the Washim district, where she will complete her probationary period. Further complicating the issue, her father, a retired administrative officer and recent Lok Sabha candidate, reportedly pressured officials to meet her demands.

RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar cast doubts on Khedkar's OBC non-creamy layer status, citing her father's substantial assets. Kumbhar highlighted an affidavit displaying Dilip Khedkar's estimated wealth at Rs 40 crore and annual income of Rs 49 lakh, raising questions about the legitimacy of her appointment under the OBC quota.