Pune: The Pune Traffic Police have seized the Audi car belonging to trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar. The car has been brought it to the Chatuhshrungi Traffic Division for further investigation and document verification.
This action follows allegations that Khedkar was using an amber light on her personal vehicle, contrary to central government regulations for officers.
The car, with registration number MH-12 AR 7000, is registered under Thermoverita Engineering Private Limited, with the registered user’s address listed as Shivane village in Haveli Taluka.
The car has 21 unpaid challans with total compounding charges of ₹27000. To expedite the investigation, the company was instructed to bring the car to the police station.
In response to a notice from the Pune police, the luxury car, previously parked and covered at Khedkar’s Baner bungalow, was moved from the premises on Friday, July 12.
This follows increased scrutiny over Khedkar's use of the vehicle for commutes to the District Collector’s office. Another luxury car at the bungalow was also relocated.
Initial attempts by the Pune police to take action against Khedkar’s vehicle were met with resistance from Khedkar’s mother, Manorama Khedkar, who allegedly threatened officers and prevented them from entering the bungalow.
The investigation has revealed that Thermoverita Engineering Private Limited, the company owning the car, is associated with a former associate of Manorama Khedkar.
It may be recalled that IAS Puja Khedkar had made several controversial requests, including the use of a red beacon on private vehicles, government emblems, facilities befitting an IAS officer, a separate cabin, and an independent government bungalow, sparking widespread discussion.
Puja Khedkar has also allegedly used a fake disability certificate to clear the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam and secure her government job.
