Puja Khedkar, an IAS officer in her probation period, has filed a harassment complaint against Suhas Diwase, the Pune District Collector. Diwase had earlier reported her alleged misuse of power to the Maharashtra government, which led to her transfer to Washim. Khedkar’s new role is as a supernumerary assistant collector.
On Monday night, police visited Puja Khedkar’s residence as part of their investigation into the harassment case. This visit is linked to the ongoing dispute between Khedkar and Diwase.
In a letter to the Chief Secretary, Suhas Diwase highlighted demands made by Puja Khedkar that he deemed inappropriate for a probationary officer. According to the report, Khedkar sought special privileges from the Collector’s office, including a designated cabin and vehicle before her official joining date on June 3. Although she was offered her chamber, she rejected it because it lacked an attached bathroom.
Following Diwase’s report, Khedkar was transferred to the Washim district to complete her training. The allegations of misuse of power also brought to light claims that she forged disability certificates to clear the civil services exam.
As the controversy grew, the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussoorie suspended Khedkar’s IAS training. The Academy issued an order stating that she had been relieved of her training duties in Maharashtra and instructed to return to the Academy by July 23.
Puja Khedkar, a 2023-batch IAS officer, has accused Pune District Collector Suhas Diwase of harassment after he reported her for alleged misuse of power, resulting in her transfer and the suspension of her training. The situation has escalated, leading to police involvement and further scrutiny of her actions.
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