Yashwantrao Chavan Memorial (YCM) Hospital in Pune has confirmed that there were no problems with the disability certificate issued to IAS officer Puja Khedkar. The hospital’s investigation showed that the seven percent locomotor disability certificate was issued correctly.
Dr. Rajendra Wable, the Dean of YCM Hospital, explained that the internal review found the certificate was issued after a thorough assessment by the hospital’s physiotherapy and orthopaedic departments. Dr. Wable assured that the medical tests were done properly and followed all rules.
This investigation was triggered by concerns from the Collector’s office in Pune, questioning the validity of Khedkar’s disability claims. Dr. Wable noted that the hospital’s job was to verify if Khedkar lived in the Pimpri Chinchwad area, not to check the address of any private company.
The investigation also found that the disability certificate does not provide any extra benefits for education or employment, contrary to some claims.
Puja Khedkar, a 2023 IAS officer, is facing criticism for allegedly misusing disability and Other Backward Classes (OBC) quota claims to get her civil service position. Earlier this year, she was transferred from Pune to Washim for alleged misconduct, including demanding perks and taking over the office of an additional collector.
The Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) in Mussorie has put Khedkar’s probation on hold while the allegations are reviewed. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has also taken legal action against her for exceeding the allowed number of attempts at the civil services exam by allegedly faking her identity. The UPSC is considering canceling her candidature and banning her from future attempts.