UPSC directs Maharashtra government to investigate IAS officer Puja Khedkar's alleged fraudulent certificates

New Delhi: In a significant development, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has instructed the Maharashtra government to thoroughly examine the caste and disability certificates of IAS probationary officer Puja Khedkar. This directive comes amidst allegations that Khedkar employed fraudulent means to secure her position in the civil services.

According to sources familiar with the matter, UPSC, in a letter dated July 12, requested the state government to provide documentation related to Khedkar's caste and disability status. The commission also sought clarification on her eligibility under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota, following claims that she did not disclose her father's substantial income.

Puja accused of using fake certificates 

Khedkar, who is currently posted in Washim after being transferred from Pune amid misconduct allegations, faces scrutiny over multiple disability certificates she obtained. One of these certificates, issued by Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial Hospital (YCMH) in 2022, indicating a 7% locomotor disability, has raised concerns as it falls short of the minimum 40% requirement mandated for such appointments.

Khedkar had claimed disabilities 

Furthermore, Khedkar had claimed disabilities including visual impairment, locomotor disability, and mental illness, citing various certificates issued between 2018 and 2021. Dr. Sanjay Ghogare, Civil Surgeon at Ahmednagar district hospital, affirmed the authenticity of these certificates, asserting they were issued following proper procedures and calculations of cumulative disability.

Khedkar's locomotor disability 

However, discrepancies emerged when YCMH officials noted that Khedkar's locomotor disability certificate did not meet the required threshold. Similarly, an application for another locomotor disability certificate at Aundh government hospital was rejected on grounds of prior application and insufficient disability percentage. District authorities in Ahmednagar have initiated a thorough investigation into Khedkar's case, with District Collector S Salimath confirming the verification of all relevant documents. The findings are expected to be compiled into a comprehensive report for submission to the divisional commissioner.

Committee formed to investigate allegations 

Khedkar, who asserted that "the truth will come out" upon testifying before a central committee formed to investigate the allegations, continues to face intense scrutiny regarding the validity of her disability claims and caste status. The ongoing probe underscores the importance of integrity in the recruitment process for civil services, a cornerstone of public trust and governance.

This investigation into Puja Khedkar's case marks a critical juncture in ensuring transparency and accountability within India's administrative services, prompting a broader discussion on the safeguards necessary to uphold meritocracy and fairness in public sector appointments.