In a significant escalation of their ongoing dispute with the state administration, revenue officers and employees across Maharashtra have declared an indefinite, statewide strike commencing December 19. The decision, announced by a major coordinating federation, stems from deep-seated grievances over an alleged "atmosphere of fear," arbitrary suspensions, and the government's failure to address long-pending financial and service-related issues.
Core Grievances and Strike Call
The strike call has been issued by the Maharashtra Rajya Mahsool Adhikari Va Karmachari Samanvay Mahasangh, an umbrella body representing various revenue associations. The industrial action will be comprehensive, covering the entire state, though work related to elections and natural disasters will be exempted. The Federation has squarely placed the responsibility for any potential disruption in public services on the government if their demands remain unaddressed.
In a strongly-worded letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the Federation cited recent announcements made during the state legislature's winter session as the immediate trigger. These announcements pertained to the suspension of officers and the initiation of criminal proceedings without prior inquiry or granting an opportunity for a hearing. The Federation argues that such actions have severely damaged the image of the revenue department and inflicted immense mental stress on its officers and staff.
A Series of Suspensions Spark Outrage
The Federation provided specific details of the suspensions that have fueled the crisis. It pointed out that on December 12, the suspension of four tehsildars, four circle officers, and two village revenue officers was announced in the legislative assembly. This was followed the very next day by the announcement of the suspension of the then sub-divisional officer of Pauni in Bhandara district and criminal action against a tehsildar.
Further allegations include the similar suspension of a circle officer and a village revenue officer from Palghar district. Labeling these moves as a violation of natural justice, the Federation contrasted the revenue department's treatment with that of other departments, where ministers typically order inquiries before deciding on punitive action. Their primary demand is the immediate revocation of all such suspension orders.
Making a broader claim, the Federation stated that since January 2025, a record number of suspensions have occurred. This list reportedly includes 28 tehsildars and naib tehsildars, four deputy collectors, eight circle officers, and several village revenue officers and assistants.
Government's Firm Stance and Clarifications
Responding to the brewing crisis, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule addressed the media in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. He asserted that the state government would firmly stand by honest revenue officers while taking strict action against illegal sand mining and the sand mafia. He assured that officials performing their duties sincerely would receive the government's full protection.
"Our objective is to make the revenue department transparent and people-oriented. We are taking concrete steps in that direction, and the public is supporting us. Many citizens have personally contacted me and demanded strict action," Bawankule stated.
The minister also highlighted positive steps, noting that the government has cleared long-pending promotions for revenue officers that were stalled for nearly a decade. He mentioned the reintroduction of enforcement action by the Regional Transport Office to curb sand mafia activities, emphasizing that "the revenue department is being strengthened under this government."
In an attempt to clarify the government's position, Bawankule explained that suspension should not be viewed as final punishment or proof of guilt. "If any officer is found innocent after investigation, they will be reinstated. No injustice will be done to anyone," he said, adding that he is scheduled to meet the concerned officers on Friday to discuss the issues.
Impending Disruption and Standoff
With the indefinite strike set to begin on December 19, a major standoff between the state's crucial revenue machinery and the government appears imminent. The Federation's warning about disruptions in public services underscores the critical role these officers play in day-to-day administration. The outcome of the minister's Friday meeting and the government's willingness to negotiate on the demands for revoking suspensions and addressing service issues will likely determine whether the strike proceeds or a last-minute resolution is found.
