By: Bharat Daily Samachar Daily: 15 Sep,2025

Kidnapped Truck Driver Rescued from Ex-IAS Probationer Puja Khedkar’s Residence

Delhi–Mumbai news circuits were jolted this week after police successfully rescued a truck driver who had allegedly been abducted and confined at the residence of former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar. The case has not only raised alarm over the shocking ordeal faced by the victim but also reignited debates around the misuse of power and influence by individuals connected to the administrative services.

The Rescue Operation

According to officials, the truck driver was reported missing after his vehicle failed to reach its destination within the expected time frame. Family members and fellow drivers raised an alert, following which police tracked the driver’s last known location. After a swift investigation, authorities traced him to the residence of Puja Khedkar, a name that has frequently been in headlines for controversies.

Police teams raided the premises and discovered the abducted driver confined inside the property. The victim was immediately rescued and provided medical attention. While physically unharmed, he appeared visibly distressed and is now assisting investigators by providing his testimony about the events leading to his abduction.

Who is Puja Khedkar?

The accused, Puja Khedkar, is no stranger to controversy. Once an IAS probationer, she has faced repeated allegations of misrepresentation, misuse of privilege, and irregularities during her probationary period. Her career in the civil services took a turbulent turn when questions were raised over her claims under certain categories during recruitment and her conduct during training.

Despite her bureaucratic background, her repeated appearance in negative news cycles has eroded much of the respect typically associated with the service. This latest case has further tainted her image, as the involvement of a former IAS probationer in such a grave incident is seen as a blow to the prestige of the Indian Administrative Service.

The Truck Driver’s Ordeal

Police sources have confirmed that the truck driver was lured under suspicious circumstances before being forcibly confined. Although details of the motive are still under investigation, initial reports suggest the abduction may have been linked to a dispute involving transport or financial dealings.

The victim, while recovering from the trauma, shared that he was held against his will and was unsure if he would be released alive. His safe recovery has brought immense relief to his family, but the incident has left many in shock over the audacity of confining a person inside the home of someone with such a high-profile administrative background.

Public Outrage and Reactions

The revelation that the driver was rescued from the house of a former IAS probationer has sparked public outrage. Social media platforms are buzzing with questions about how individuals with bureaucratic ties can misuse their influence and whether such connections allow them to escape accountability.

Many citizens have expressed frustration, noting that ordinary people often face severe consequences for minor infractions, while those in positions of privilege seem to be involved in far graver crimes. The incident has also intensified discussions around reforms needed in India’s administrative and judicial systems to ensure equality before the law.

Legal Proceedings Ahead

Police have confirmed that strict legal action will be pursued against Puja Khedkar and anyone else found complicit in the abduction. An FIR has been registered, and sections relating to abduction, wrongful confinement, and criminal intimidation are likely to be applied.

Officials have further stated that they will not treat the case lightly simply because of the accused’s bureaucratic background. If proven guilty, Khedkar could face significant jail time along with the complete tarnishing of her public image and professional standing.

A Pattern of Controversy

This is not the first time Puja Khedkar has been linked to controversy. Earlier incidents involving allegations of false claims, inappropriate conduct, and misuse of privileges during her probation period had already made her a polarizing figure in public discourse. With this new abduction case surfacing, many are now questioning why stricter monitoring and accountability measures were not enforced earlier.

Experts in public administration argue that the system must adopt tougher checks to ensure that individuals with questionable integrity do not misuse the power or respect that comes with bureaucratic roles.

Larger Implications

The incident goes beyond just one case of abduction—it touches upon the larger issues of governance, accountability, and the trust citizens place in civil servants. When a former IAS probationer is linked to such an incident, it erodes public faith in the system designed to serve and protect.

For the truck driver community, this case is a grim reminder of the dangers faced on the road and beyond. Truck drivers, who are already vulnerable to harassment, theft, and exploitation, now see this case as proof that systemic issues extend far beyond highway crimes.

What Lies Ahead

As investigations continue, the police are expected to uncover more details about the motive, possible accomplices, and the exact chain of events. Public attention will remain high on this case, given the accused’s controversial background and the shocking nature of the crime.

For Puja Khedkar, this incident may well mark the final nail in the coffin of her already embattled reputation. For the truck driver, the rescue offers relief but also leaves behind scars of trauma. For India’s governance system, it poses a wake-up call on the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and stronger safeguards against the misuse of authority.