Pune Police Seek Controversial IAS Officer Puja Khedkar’s Family in Threatening Farmers Case

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/15th July 2024

Early Monday morning, Pune Police initiated efforts to locate controversial IAS officer Puja Khedkar and her family following a case against her mother, Manorama Khedkar. The case stems from a disturbing video that surfaced recently, showing Manorama Khedkar allegedly threatening farmers with pistols in Pune. According to police sources, the Khedkar family is currently absconding, prompting the deployment of three investigative teams to track them down.

The video, which went viral last week, led to the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) against Manorama Khedkar. The complaint was lodged by one of the farmers who were reportedly threatened in the incident. This development compounds existing controversies surrounding Puja Khedkar, including allegations of misusing power and abusing the OBC quota during her tenure as a trainee IAS officer.

Sources within the police department revealed that attempts to contact the Khedkar family have been unsuccessful. Their residence in Baner, Pune, was found locked, with the family unreachable as their phones are switched off.

“The accused are currently evading authorities. Despite our efforts to establish contact, their phones remain off. We also visited their residence, but they were not present, and the premises were secured,” stated police sources. “Our teams will continue efforts to establish communication and locate them today.”

The unfolding situation has sparked widespread concern and scrutiny, particularly regarding the conduct of public officials and their families. The police’s proactive measures underscore the gravity of the allegations and the urgency to address the matter swiftly.

Puja Khedkar, who has been at the center of controversies before, now faces heightened scrutiny as authorities intensify efforts to apprehend her family amidst mounting public and legal pressure.

The case against Manorama Khedkar has ignited debates on the responsibilities and conduct expected from individuals associated with public service, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to ethical standards.

As the investigation progresses, authorities remain focused on ensuring justice for the affected farmers and upholding the rule of law. The outcome of these efforts will be pivotal in determining the course of action against those implicated in the alleged threats and related misconduct.

The Pune Police’s multi-pronged approach aims to swiftly resolve the case, restore public confidence, and address concerns regarding governance and accountability in the administration. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges in maintaining public trust and ethical standards in public service roles.