The Maharashtra government has transferred the trainee IAS officer Dr. Pooja Khedkar from Pune amidst controversy. She has been appointed as the Assistant Collector of Washim district. This action was taken following a letter written to the Chief Secretary by Pune's Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase.
As per the recent order, the IAS officer from the 2023 batch will serve as the supernumerary Assistant Collector in Washim district for the remaining duration of her probation. Pooja Khedkar sparked controversy after requesting privileges from the Collector's office, which are not granted to probationary officers.
Uses red beacon on her personal Audi car
Additionally, she used her personal Audi car with red and blue beacons and a VIP number plate, causing a stir in administration. She also placed a 'Maharashtra Government' board on her private car. Khedkar's demands from the Collector's office, which included an official car with a VIP number plate, accommodations, an office with adequate staff, and a constable, were completely inappropriate.
Source: aajtak
Came to limelight after office dispute
According to regulations, a probationary officer is not entitled to the aforementioned facilities and must first be appointed as a gazetted officer. Dr. Khedkar took over the room opposite to that of the Additional Collector Ajay More when he was away and placed a nameplate with her own name on it.
Secured 841st rank in UPSC
Dr. Khedkar, who achieved the 841st rank in the UPSC exam, removed chairs, a sofa, a table, and all other items from the office without the prior consent of the Additional Collector. Subsequently, she directed the Revenue Assistant to provide her with letterheads, visiting cards, paperweights, nameplates, an official seal, and an intercom in her name.
It is worth noting that Khedkar’s father, a retired administrative officer, had also allegedly exerted pressure on the District Collector's office to fulfill his daughter's demands and warned officials of consequences.
