Pune ACB Investigates IAS Puja Khedkar's Father Over Alleged Unaccounted Wealth

The Anti-Corruption Bureau in Pune is probing Dilip Khedkar, father of IAS officer Puja Khedkar, regarding unaccounted wealth. This follows allegations that she abused her authority. A detailed report has been sent to the HQ for further action, while the identity of the complainant remains confidential.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Pune has initiated an investigation against Dilip Khedkar, the father of probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar, to scrutinize the family's unaccounted wealth. Puja Khedkar, who secured an all-India rank of 821 in the UPSC exams, has been accused of abusing her authority.

A complaint against Dilip Khedkar was lodged several months ago, and the issue resurfaced recently, prompting the complainant to approach the Pune ACB again. Consequently, action has been taken on the complaint.

ACB Superintendent of Police Atul Tambe stated that a detailed investigative report has been drafted and submitted to the headquarters for further steps. He emphasized that the complainant's identity remains confidential. Tambe explained, "There was a complaint against Dilip Khedkar with ACB a few months ago. We have drafted a detailed report of our investigation and complaint. It has been sent to the HQ for further action. The name of the complainant cannot be disclosed as it is confidential."

Earlier, Pune-based RTI activist Vijay Kumbhar questioned Puja Khedkar's appointment, alleging that she did not qualify for the OBC non-creamy layer category due to her father's substantial assets, reportedly worth Rs 40 crore. Kumbhar pointed out that according to regulations, the OBC non-creamy layer category is reserved for individuals whose parents earn below Rs 8 lakh annually. However, Dilip Khedkar's declared income exceeded this limit.

Kumbhar further asserted that Dilip Khedkar's election affidavits from the recent Lok Sabha polls detailed conservatively estimated assets worth Rs 40 crore and an annual income of Rs 49 lakh. These details are publicly accessible. Kumbhar reiterated, "Based on the election affidavit filed by her father in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, the total assets of Khedkar's father amount to Rs 40 crore."

(With inputs from agencies.)