In a dramatic turn of events, Navi Mumbai’s Rabale police rescued a kidnapped truck helper from the Pune residence of former IAS officer trainee Pooja Khedkar. The case has once again brought her family into public scrutiny, with her mother, Manorama Khedkar, now facing charges for allegedly obstructing police action.
Accident Leads to Abduction
The incident occurred on September 13 at the busy Airoli signal in Navi Mumbai, when a mixer truck collided with a car. The truck, driven by 35-year-old Prahlad Kumar from Turbhe MIDC, became the centre of an unexpected crime. After the collision, two men from the car, bearing registration number MH 12 RT 5000, allegedly forced Kumar into their vehicle before speeding away. Shocked bystanders alerted police, who immediately registered a case of kidnapping.
Police Trace Vehicle to Khedkar Family
Rabale police acted swiftly, tracing the vehicle to the Khedkar family. A team of officers then reached the Pune home of Pooja Khedkar, where they discovered the missing truck helper. During the raid, her mother, Manorama Khedkar, allegedly attempted to prevent the police from carrying out their duty, resulting in a separate case being filed against her for obstruction. She has since been summoned for questioning.
Search for Kidnappers Continues
Investigators confirmed that the SUV involved in the crime is registered under the Khedkar family’s name. However, the two men who forcibly abducted Kumar remain at large. Their identities are yet to be verified, and police teams are actively searching to track them down.
Spotlight Back on Pooja Khedkar
The case has generated widespread discussion, largely because of its association with Pooja Khedkar, who has already been under the scanner for controversies during her IAS probation. She has faced allegations of cheating in the civil services examination and misusing OBC and disability quota benefits. Recently, the Nashik Divisional Commissioner cancelled her non-creamy layer OBC certificate, further denting her reputation.
Ongoing Probe
Authorities are now examining whether more members of the Khedkar family were aware of or involved in the abduction. While the rescued truck helper has been reunited with safety, the case highlights the deepening troubles surrounding Pooja Khedkar and her family. The next steps in the police probe will likely determine whether this remains an isolated crime or points to a broader pattern of misconduct.
