Maharashtra Government Suspends MPCB Member Secretary Over Alleged Ministerial Disobedience
The state government of Maharashtra took decisive action on Friday by suspending M Devender Singh, the member secretary of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), pending disciplinary proceedings. This move follows allegations that Singh, an IAS officer from the 2011 batch, repeatedly failed to attend briefings called by Environment Minister Pankaja Munde, despite multiple reminders.
Political Backlash and Calls for Strict Action
The suspension was initiated after Panel Speaker Dilip Lande directed the action on Thursday, based on Munde's statement in the legislative assembly. BJP MLA Sudhir Mungatiwar strongly condemned Singh's actions, labeling them "a murder of democracy" and advocating for the suspension of officials who show insubordination. Mungatiwar urged the Speaker to move a breach of privilege motion against Singh suo motu, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
In his remarks, Mungatiwar stated, "Nothing can be more serious than this. This is nothing but cold-blooded murder of democracy... if officers are not showing up for briefing the minister. Such officials therefore must be suspended. Their names must be taken and a breach of privilege should be moved against them suo motu. Pankaja Munde is a cabinet minister. A message must be given to all officers and this message should serve for the next 100 years."
Official Suspension Order and Further Allegations
The state government issued a formal suspension order, citing powers under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. The order read, "Whereas disciplinary proceeding against M Devender Singh, Member Secretary, MPCB is contemplated. Now, therefore, government of Maharashtra in exercise of powers conferred by clause (a) of sub-rule (i) of rule 3... hereby places M Devender Singh, Member Secretary, MPCB under suspension with immediate effect."
Mungatiwar further elaborated on the timeline, noting that the incident occurred on Thursday, leading to the suspension on Friday. He called for stricter measures, suggesting, "In future, this officer should be put in jail. Saying I will not come to give a briefing to the minister is an insult to the Constitution. Punish that officer because this is a provision in the Constitution." He also criticized broader attitudes among officials, claiming that "75% of the district collectors are arrogant, and say MLAs keep changing, we will remain. They must give respect and take respect."
This suspension highlights ongoing tensions between government officials and political representatives in Maharashtra, raising questions about accountability and protocol in administrative functions.
