Mumbai, February 28: The suspension of an IAS officer from the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has ignited significant political controversy in the state. This incident has drawn attention to the shifting power dynamics within the ruling coalition.
The MPCB is chaired by Siddhesh Kadam, a member of the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde. The board operates under the Environment Department, which is overseen by BJP leader Pankaja Munde.
On Thursday evening, acting chairman Dilip Lande ordered the suspension of two MPCB officials after Munde informed the assembly that they had failed to attend a briefing she had called. Lande described their absence as gross negligence and a sign of disrespect towards the people of Maharashtra, leading to the suspension orders.
The suspended officials include IAS officer M. Devendra Singh (member secretary) and joint director Satish Padwal.
Sources indicate that less than a day after the suspension orders were issued, the file recommending their suspension was presented to the Chief Minister for approval.
When questioned about the decision, Lande emphasized that it was irrelevant that he was merely the acting chairman. He stated, “I was in the chair and took action due to the failure to comply with the minister’s orders and neglect of duty.”
Munde addressed the assembly on Thursday evening, responding to a half-hour discussion on pollution in Chandrapur district. She reiterated that the officials did not attend the briefing she had organized on the issue.
On Friday, BJP MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar introduced a privilege motion against the MPCB, alleging that it had not adhered to the minister’s directives.
Siddhesh Kadam is the son of former minister and senior Shiv Sena leader Ramdas Kadam, and the brother of state minister Yogesh Kadam. Attempts to reach him for comments were unsuccessful.
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My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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