Daijiworld Media Network - Pune

Pune, Oct 20: Dilip Khedkar, father of former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, on Monday denied allegations that he kidnapped a truck driver following a road rage incident, calling the claims "completely false." He added that any assault would have left medical evidence.

The case arose last month when a concrete mixer truck driven by Prahlad Kumar (22) allegedly brushed against a Land Cruiser on Mulund-Airoli Road, leading to a dispute with two occupants of the car. Police alleged that Dilip Khedkar and his bodyguard forced the truck driver into the SUV and took him to the Khedkar bungalow, reportedly seeking compensation for the damage.

Officials said police tracing the driver were initially blocked by Khedkar's mother, Manorama, who later assured authorities she would bring the accused to Chatushringi police station in Pune by 3 pm. However, she did not cooperate, and police later found both the car and the suspects missing. Manorama reportedly unleashed dogs to intimidate officers during one visit, and fled the premises the following day.

The truck driver was eventually rescued unharmed. Both Dilip Khedkar and Manorama have been granted anticipatory bail. Earlier, Manorama claimed she was being “targeted” despite cooperating with the investigation.

The Khedkar family has been embroiled in multiple controversies in recent years. In 2024, Puja Khedkar faced scrutiny over alleged misuse of power and false claims in her UPSC candidature. Later, a viral video showed Manorama brandishing a gun during a land dispute, leading to her brief arrest.