The Controversial Rise of Trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar , Misuse of Power – Dzire News
The Controversial Rise of Trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar , Misuse of Power – Dzire News
Dzire News New Delhi– Puja Diliprao Khedkar, a name that has recently become synonymous with controversy in the corridors of the District Collector’s Office in Pune, has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons. As a trainee IAS officer, Khedkar’s actions have raised eyebrows and sparked widespread criticism. This article explores deep into her background, her journey to becoming an IAS officer, the allegations of misuse of power, and the broader inference of her behavior. She was born and raised in Pune, Maharashtra. She comes from a family with a strong administrative background. Her father, Diliprao Khedkar, is a retired administrative officer who has had a significant influence on her career choices. Growing up in an environment where civil services were highly regarded, Puja aspired to follow in her father’s footsteps from a young age. She pursued her education with a focus on becoming a civil servant, excelling academically and participating in various extracurricular activities that showcased her leadership qualities. After completing her undergraduate degree, she dedicated herself to preparing for the prestigious UPSC exams, eventually securing a position as a trainee IAS officer. Puja Khedkar’s journey to becoming an IAS officer was marked by hard work and determination. She cleared the UPSC exams with commendable scores, earning her a spot in the highly competitive Indian Administrative Service. Her appointment was seen as a testament to her capabilities and the strict training she underwent to serve the nation.

However, it wasn’t long before her holding as a trainee IAS officer took a controversial turn. What should have been a promising start to a distinguished career quickly became a series of allegations and public outcry. The first signs of trouble emerged when reports began circulating about Khedkar’s demands for VIP treatment at the District Collector’s Office. As a probationary officer, she was expected to learn the ropes and earn the respect of her peers and superiors through hard work and dedication. Instead, she allegedly demanded privileges that were not typically afforded to someone in her position. One of the most improper issues was Khedkar’s demand for an official car with a VIP number plate and a red-blue beacon light. These are symbols of high-ranking
officials and are not meant for probationary officers. Her insistence on using such a car raised questions about her understanding of the responsibilities and humility expected from a civil servant. Khedkar also reportedly commandeered the ante-chamber of additional collector Ajay More, converting it into her personal office. This move was seen as a blatant disregard for office protocols and the hierarchical structure within the administrative system. The ante-chamber, meant for senior officials, was now being used by a trainee, causing significant disruption and resentment among the staff.
The situation took an even more dangerous turn when it was revealed that Khedkar’s father, Diliprao Khedkar, was allegedly exerting pressure on the District Collector’s Office staff. He was accused of threatening them with dire consequences if his daughter’s demands were not met. This behavior created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, further compounding the issues at
hand.For the past three months, this father-daughter duo has allegedly been harassing officers with their demands and behavior. The staff at the District Collector’s Office found themselves in a precarious position, caught between following protocol and appeasing the Khedkars’ demands. Her mother was also seen threatening the farmers with a pistol in her hand, when they rejected to give their land to her which she allegedly wanted to acquire The actions of Puja Khedkar and her father did not go unnoticed by the public and the media. As news of the controversy spread, it sparked widespread outrage. Social media platforms were abuzz with criticism and calls for accountability. Netizens took to platforms like Twitter to express their disapproval, with many questioning the integrity of the civil services if such behavior was allowed to go unchecked. The District Collector’s Office also found itself in a
difficult position. On one hand, there was a need to maintain the decorum and discipline expected in a government office. On the other hand, the allegations against a trainee IAS officer and her father required careful handling to avoid further growth. Officials at the District Collector’s Office, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed their frustration and concern over the situation. They highlighted the importance of setting a positive example for other probationary officers and the need to uphold the values of the civil services. The controversy surrounding Puja Khedkar has broader implications for the Indian

Administrative Service and the civil services in general. It raises important questions about the training and mentorship of probationary officers. The behavior exhibited by Khedkar is seen as a deviation from the principles of humility, dedication, and service that are expected from IAS officers. The incident also bring out the need for a strong training and mentorship program for
probationary officers. While academic excellence and the ability to clear the UPSC exams are important, so too is the cultivation of values and ethics that define a good civil servant. Mentors and senior officials play a crucial role in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of young officers, and this case highlights the need for stronger guidance. Public perception of the civil services is also heavily influenced by the actions of its officers. Incidents like this can ruin public trust and confidence in the administrative system. It is essential for the government and the civil services to address such issues promptly and transparently to maintain the integrity of the system. This case of Puja Khedkar is a stark reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that come with being an IAS officer. Her journey from a trainee to a controversial figure has been marked by allegations of misuse of power and VIP demands that have caused significant disruption. As the investigation into her actions continues, it is hoped that the lessons learned from this incident will lead to stronger training programs and a renewed emphasis on the values that define the Indian Administrative Service.
Sanjeev Sharma Editor in chief
Alisha Shahid Asstt Sub Editor