Noted IAS officer from Maharashtra, Pooja Khedkar, declared herself as a non-creamy OBC candidate to clear the civil services exam. However, her father disclosed a property worth about $5 million in his electoral affidavit. Questions arise on how the offspring of someone possessing such wealth can be considered under the non-creamy OBC category.
According to the electoral affidavit, Pooja Khedkar's parents own 110 acres of agricultural land, which violates the Land Ceiling Act. They also own six shops, seven apartments (one in Hiranandani), 900 grams of gold, diamonds, a gold watch worth around $22,000, and four cars. Furthermore, they have stakes in two private companies and an automotive firm. Pooja Khedkar herself has a property worth approximately $2.2 million.
Moreover, it has been revealed that Pooja Khedkar claimed in her affidavit submitted to the UPSC to be visually impaired and mentally ill. She used this disability certificate to avail special concessions during her UPSC examination process. Despite scoring lower marks, she passed the examination due to these concessions.
Secured 841st Rank in UPSC
Pooja Khedkar secured the 841st rank in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. Her mother is the village chief of Bhalgaon in Ahmednagar district. The family legacy includes her father and grandfather having served in the administrative services. Her father has even been an Assistant Collector in Pune.
Source: aajtak
Transfer from Pune to Washim District
IAS Pooja Khedkar has been transferred from Pune to the Washim district. The Maharashtra government enacted the transfer following complaints of the misuse of power. Pune Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase wrote to the Chief Secretary raising concerns about Khedkar. She is now appointed as the Additional Assistant Collector of Washim district.
What Demands Did IAS Pooja Make During Probation?
During her probation in Pune, Pooja Khedkar requested several privileges that are not typically accorded to probationary officers. She used her private Audi car equipped with red and blue beacons, mounted a 'Government of Maharashtra' board on it, and demanded an official car, accommodation, an office room, and additional staff. She even occupied the chamber of the Additional Collector in their absence. Dr. Khedkar's father, a retired administrative officer, reportedly exerted pressure on the District Collector's office to fulfill Pooja's demands. Moreover, he threatened repercussions if her demands were not met.
