Maharashtra Government Launches High-Level Probe into PCMC Fire Brigade Department
In a significant development, Maharashtra State Minister Uday Samant informed the legislative council on Thursday that the government will conduct a comprehensive investigation into alleged irregularities within the fire brigade department of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC). The probe will be carried out by an officer senior to the municipal commissioner, with strict action promised against anyone found responsible.
MLC Raises Serious Allegations
The announcement came in response to questions raised by MLC Amit Gorkhe, who highlighted potential misconduct in the issuance of fire No Objection Certificates (NOCs) by the PCMC fire brigade. Gorkhe, a BJP member, pointed to the prolonged vacancy of the crucial Chief Fire Officer (CFO) position as a key factor that may have enabled large-scale irregularities.
"The administration kept this vital post vacant for an extended period," Gorkhe stated. "During this time, the department was managed by an assistant commissioner rank officer, while a junior officer was given additional charge, instead of initiating proper recruitment procedures to appoint a new CFO. This entire arrangement raises serious suspicions."
Specific Demands for Investigation
Gorkhe made several specific demands, including:
- Investigation of all fire NOCs issued during the tenure of Rushikesh Chippade, who held additional charge of the CFO position
- Scrutiny of equipment purchases made during the same period
- Examination of recruitment processes that allegedly disqualified qualified candidates
The CFO position in PCMC has remained vacant since October 2022 following the retirement of the previous officer. Gorkhe alleged that when recruitment was finally announced, several qualified applicants were deliberately declared ineligible by civic officials.
Government's Response and Recruitment Issues
Minister Samant explained that the vacancy persisted because the municipal corporation could not identify an eligible candidate. "A recruitment advertisement was issued to fill two positions—regional fire officer and deputy chief fire officer—but candidates were required to have at least five years of experience," Samant clarified. "Those who did not meet this criterion were declared ineligible."
Additional Concerns Raised by Council Members
MLC Shrikant Bhartiya raised further concerns about the department's operations. He questioned why only one officer was authorized to issue fire NOCs when seven sub-officers in the city possessed the eligibility to perform this function. Bhartiya also highlighted transparency issues, noting that "another recruitment process launched in 2024 was halted midway, which raised doubts about the integrity of the entire procedure."
Bhartiya joined Gorkhe in demanding that the investigation be conducted by an officer senior to the municipal commissioner to ensure impartiality and thoroughness.
Minister's Assurance of Comprehensive Action
In his response, Minister Samant provided firm assurances to the legislative council. "All concerns raised by the members will be thoroughly investigated," he stated unequivocally. The minister confirmed that the probe would indeed be led by a senior officer ranking above the municipal commissioner, ensuring the investigation carries appropriate authority and independence.
The announcement represents a significant step toward addressing long-standing concerns about administrative practices within PCMC's fire safety infrastructure. The comprehensive investigation aims to restore public confidence in the fire brigade department's operations and ensure proper fire safety protocols are maintained throughout the municipal corporation's jurisdiction.
