In a recent worrying escalation, the central government has constituted a one-member inquiry about complaints against wrongdoing of a 2022 batch probationary IAS officer, Puja Khedkar, in Maharashtra.
Specifically, the committee’s findings will include allegations concerning Khedkar’s fake certificates, when she sat for the civil services examination, her behavior during the probation period, and what the IAS Academy will reveal about her conduct during the probationary period. The joint secretary-level committee is likely to present the detailed findings of the investigation within two weeks.
In tandem with the central question, the Pune Police have taken action against Khedkar, saying that they will probe into the complaints alleging that she had installed a beacon on her personal Audi, a ‘Maharashtra Government’ car. Police clarified that they would deal with the issue under the Motor Vehicles Rules Act, according to which non-observance of traffic rules is a punishable offense and attracts a fine of ₹21,000.
The scandal has thus led to political brawling, with the Leader of the Maharashtra State Assembly Opposition, Vijay Wadettiwar, calling for a probe into the selection and the involvement of fake certificates. Staat AAP alligators have also deemed it one of the grave reputational risks for the state and the center while Seeking the state government to carry out a detailed probe.
As the inquiries progress, people’s confidence in the efficiency and honesty of the civil services will be on the line, and all eyes will be on the result.
