Pune: Trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar addressed media on Monday (July 15) and claimed innocence till proven guilty. Khedkar alleged that a media trial is being conducted against her.
Puja Khedkar is under investigation for allegedly securing her position with a fake disability certificate and misusing the socio-educational reservation benefits. A committee has been appointed to investigate the allegations against Khedkar, who will be questioned by the committee.
Khedkar stated, "I will respond to the committee formed to investigate my case. According to our Constitution, no one can be deemed guilty until proven otherwise. Currently, there is a media trial against me."
Khedkar's parents are reportedly absconding after a case was registered against them. When asked about this, she said, "I have no idea about that. I cannot comment on the matter. Currently, I am in my probation period and continuing my studies."
Khedkar had submitted two disability medical certificates to secure her IAS position—one for visual impairment and another for a mental disorder. However, a third certificate she sought was denied by a medical officer.
Regarding the disability certificates, Khedkar explained, "An expert committee has been established to address these technical matters. I will respond to them, and they will decide my fate. This is official and confidential communication, and I cannot speak further on it."
"There is a media trial against me, and people are watching. But the truth will come out. According to our Constitution, one is innocent until proven guilty. I have faith in the public and the media. The truth will emerge after the committee's decision," Khedkar added.
The investigation continues as the committee looks into the validity of the certificates and the allegations of misuse of reservation benefits.
