Red Beacon On Private Audi Leads to Transfer Of Pune Trainee IAS Officer Puja Khedkar

A probationary IAS officer in Maharashtra has been transferred to Washim due to alleged misuse of her authority. Puja Khedkar, who achieved an All India Rank of 821 in the UPSC exams, was initially posted as an assistant collector in Pune.

Ms Khedkar faced controversy for using facilities not granted to probation officers. She used a red-blue beacon and a "Maharashtra Government" board on her private Audi car. Additionally, she occupied the ante-chamber of additional collector Ajay More without his consent and removed office furniture.

Violation of Protocols

She also requested a revenue assistant to provide her with a letterhead, nameplate, and other amenities in her name. These actions led Pune Collector Suhas Divase to write to the state's Chief Secretary, resulting in her transfer from Pune to Washim.

"The 2023 batch IAS officer will serve the remaining period of her probation as supernumerary assistant collector in Washim district," stated the transfer order.

Family Influence

Reports indicate that Ms Khedkar's father, a retired administrative officer, pressured the District Collector's office to meet her demands. This added another layer of complexity to the situation.

The incident highlights the importance of adhering to established protocols and maintaining professional conduct, especially for those in public service roles.

The transfer aims to ensure that such violations do not go unchecked and that proper disciplinary measures are enforced within the civil services.

This case serves as a reminder for all civil servants about the significance of following rules and regulations during their tenure.