Dilip Khedkar, Father of Ex IAS Officer Puja Khedkar, Booked for Kidnapping Truck Helper After Car Accident

In Navi Mumbai, Dilip Khedkar-the father of dismissed IAS officer Puja Khedkar-along with his bodyguard, allegedly kidnapped a truck helper after their luxury Land Cruiser SUV worth over ₹2 crore collided with a cement mixer. The accused reportedly sought compensation for damages.

Witnesses saw the victim, Prahlad Kumar, being forced into the SUV and driven to the Khedkars' Pune residence. When police attempted a rescue, Manorama Khedkar, Dilip's wife, allegedly misbehaved with officers and unleashed a dog on them. Despite resistance, police rescued Kumar safely.

Police Action

Deputy Commissioner of Police Pankaj Dahane confirmed that Dilip and his bodyguard were present during the accident and kidnapped Kumar to press for compensation. After promising to visit the police station, Dilip and Manorama absconded.

A case has been registered against Manorama under multiple IPC sections for obstructing government duty, misleading police, and shielding an accused. When police revisited the family's home on Monday, neither the Khedkars nor their SUV was found.

A Family Mired in Controversy

The Khedkar family has faced repeated controversies. Puja Khedkar was dismissed from the IAS after being found guilty of falsifying documents to secure her position. She was also accused of demanding perks while on probation. Meanwhile, Manorama had earlier threatened farmers with a pistol during a land dispute.

The police are continuing their search for Dilip and Manorama, while further details of the case are expected to emerge.