GMCH Dean's BJP Felicitation Ignites Political Neutrality Debate
Dr Shivaji Sukre, the dean of Government Medical College and Hospital in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, has stirred fresh controversy. He publicly felicitated the city president of the Bharatiya Janata Party following the party's recent municipal corporation poll victory.
Civic Activists Condemn the Gesture
Civic activists strongly criticized this action. They called it a clear breach of the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules, 1981. These activists are now demanding immediate action against Dr Sukre for his conduct.
This incident follows earlier allegations against the dean. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve accused Dr Sukre of pressuring a Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate to withdraw from the municipal election. Election authorities have already sought explanations from both Danve and Dr Sukre regarding these claims.
Allegations of Political Bias Intensify
Ambadas Danve stated that the dean's public felicitation of BJP functionaries reinforces his previous allegation. He believes Dr Sukre demonstrates clear political bias through these actions.
"I will request additional time from the election authorities to respond to the complaint against Dr Sukre," Danve said. "The dean is committing one violation after another, and we will not tolerate it."
Health activist Pravin Shinde emphasized the legal requirements. According to the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules 1981, the dean must maintain absolute political neutrality at all times.
"The GMCH dean is openly showing political allegiance with BJP," Shinde commented. "This affinity is a poor attempt to cover his wrongdoings."
Dean Remains Silent Amid Growing Scrutiny
Dr Sukre did not respond to requests for comment regarding this latest controversy. He currently serves as acting dean of the medical college.
The dean faces additional scrutiny beyond the political neutrality issue. Authorities are investigating allegations that he misused public funds. There are also claims that he made purchases for GMCH at inflated prices.
On December 24 last year, the minister of state for medical education ordered a formal inquiry into these allegations against Dr Sukre. The investigation continues as these new political neutrality concerns emerge.
