IAS Officer Puja Khedkar Defends Herself Against Misuse Allegations

Probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar is under scrutiny for allegedly misusing disability and OBC quotas to secure her position. She maintains her innocence and believes the truth will prevail once she presents her case to a Central committee. Khedkar urges that the committee's decision should be accepted by all.

Probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar defended herself against allegations of misuse of disability provision and OBC quota for securing her position in the civil services. Speaking to media in Washim on Monday, Khedkar stated that the truth would be revealed after she testifies before the investigating Central committee.

Accusations against the 34-year-old officer include fraudulent means to clear her exam, especially misrepresentation under physical disabilities and OBC categories. Khedkar emphasized the necessity for patience, asserting that the committee's decision should be respected by all parties.

In response to questions about potential targeting, Khedkar highlighted that under the Indian Constitution, individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty. She condemned the media trial, stressing that the final judgment must come from the expert government committee overseeing the probe.

(With inputs from agencies.)