Controversy Surrounds IAS Officer Pooja Khedkar Over Alleged Misuse of Special Concessions in UPSC Selection

IAS officer Pooja Khedkar is currently under scrutiny by the Pune Police amid allegations of traffic violations and misuse of authority during her probationary period. As a result of these accusations, she has been transferred from Pune to Washim in Maharashtra. Pooja Khedkar comes from a family background where her father, a retired officer, has also ventured into politics. What has drawn significant attention is Pooja Khedkar's assertion in her affidavit submitted to the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) where she disclosed being both visually impaired and mentally ill. Despite these challenges, she was selected for the prestigious IAS cadre. This disclosure enabled her to avail of special concessions, despite reportedly scoring lower marks in the examination. This development has sparked discussions about the integrity of the selection process and the scrutiny required for candidates availing such concessions. The case has also raised questions about the transparency and thoroughness of the screening procedures for civil services examinations.