Mumbai, February 27: 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 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, headed by BJP leader Pankaja Munde.
On Thursday evening, acting chairman Dilip Lande ordered the suspension of two MPCB officials after Munde reported to the assembly that they had failed to attend a briefing she convened. Lande described their absence as gross negligence and 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 the suspensions was presented to the Chief Minister for approval.
When questioned about the decision, Lande stated that it did not matter that he was only the acting chairman. He emphasized that he 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 noted that the officials had not attended the briefing on this critical issue.
On Friday, BJP MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar introduced a privilege motion against the MPCB, alleging that it had failed to follow 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 comment were unsuccessful.
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