PMO Seeks Report on Controversial IAS Trainee Puja Khedkar From Pune Collector

New Delhi: The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on Thursday requested a detailed report on the ongoing controversy surrounding 2023-batch IAS trainee Puja Khedkar from the Pune District Collector. This move comes in response to the growing public and media attention on Khedkar’s demands for special accommodations and the scrutiny of her Disability and OBC Creamy Layer Certificates.

What is the controversy surrounding IAS Puja Khedkar?

The controversy erupted after reports emerged that Khedkar demanded a separate cabin and dedicated staff, unusual requests for a trainee IAS officer. The situation intensified when a video of Khedkar’s mock interview circulated on social media, where she claimed her father's income was zero due to a lack of financial connection, despite his substantial wealth.

Khedkar's father, Dileep Khedkar, a retired administrative officer with assets worth over Rs 40 crore, reportedly exerted pressure on the District Collector's office to meet his daughter's demands. This has raised questions about the potential misuse of influence and privilege within the administrative framework.