Doctor's certificate reveals trainee IAS Puja Khedkar as 'medically fit' for MBBS course in 2007

New Delhi: A medical certificate submitted by Puja Khedkar in 2007 to secure admission to a private medical college in Pune has surfaced, declaring her "medically fit" without any major visual or auditory disability. Puja Khedkar secured a rank of 821 in the 2022 UPSC Civil Services Examination, and was alloted the Indian Adminstrative Service (IAS) under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) and Physically Handicapped (PH) quotas. 

The certificate, accessed by India Today, stated that Puja Khedkar did not have any incapacitating disease and was deemed fit for the MBBS course at Kashibai Navle Medical College. It did not mention any physical or mental disabilities.

College director's statement

Dr. Arvind Bhore, the director of Kashibai Navle Medical College, confirmed that Puja Khedkar submitted a certificate indicating her belonging to the Nomadic Tribes (NT) category from the Vanjari community. He clarified that the certificate did not mention any disability.

Issues surrounding disability quota

Puja Khedkar faced scrutiny in 2022 for allegedly misrepresenting her disability status. She missed several medical tests initially but later submitted an MRI report from a private medical center in 2023, which was accepted after an 8-month delay.

IAS officer's controversies and transfer

Puja Khedkar made headlines after being transferred from Pune to Washim due to alleged inappropriate demands, including special privileges and accommodations during her probation period. She also adorned her private Audi car with official insignia, which sparked further controversy.

Centre formed one-member panel 

In response to the controversies, the Centre has formed a one-member panel to investigate Puja Khedkar's conduct and allegations surrounding her use of quotas and privileges. The developments have cast a spotlight on Puja Khedkar's tenure as an IAS officer, prompting further investigation into her actions and claims.