A major controversy has erupted in Maharashtra's political circles after a senior opposition leader accused a top government medical officer of directly interfering in the electoral process. Ambadas Danve, the former leader of the opposition in the state legislative council, has filed a formal complaint demanding action against the dean of a government medical college.
Allegations of Electoral Interference
In a letter addressed to the Maharashtra State Election Commission, Danve, a prominent Shiv Sena (UBT) politician, has sought an inquiry and the immediate suspension of Dr Shivaji Sukre, the dean of the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The core allegation is that Dr Sukre made a phone call to a Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate contesting the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation polls.
Danve claims that during this call, Dr Sukre questioned the candidate's decision to enter the electoral fray and asked why he was aligning with the guardian minister. The senior politician alleges that the dean subsequently pressured the candidate to withdraw his nomination for the civic elections. Danve has termed this a serious breach of the election model code of conduct, arguing that a senior government officer has no business interfering in the democratic process.
Dean's Response and Questions Over Appointment
When contacted by the media, Dr Shivaji Sukre offered a preliminary response to the allegations. He stated, "I don't remember making any such call or asking any candidate to withdraw from the municipal corporation elections. Still, I'll look into the matter." Officials from the Election Commission have confirmed that the complaint will be examined as per established procedure, and appropriate directives will be issued based on the findings.
Beyond the immediate allegation, Danve's letter also raises serious questions about the legality of Dr Sukre's appointment as dean. He pointed out that the Maharashtra Administrative Tribunal (MAT) had taken cognisance of irregularities in the appointment process. The MAT had directed that Sukre's appointment could only be implemented until June 22, 2024. Danve alleges that despite this clear directive, Dr Sukre has continued to function in the post well beyond the stipulated deadline.
Demands for Action and Threat of Agitation
In his complaint, Ambadas Danve has put forth several demands for the State Election Commission. He has called for the immediate suspension of Dr Shivaji Sukre for violating the election code of conduct. Furthermore, he has demanded that a formal case be registered against the dean and a detailed inquiry be conducted into the alleged phone call made to the Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate.
Danve concluded his letter with a warning of political agitation. He stated that if the Election Commission fails to take stringent action against Dr Sukre, his party would be forced to launch widespread protests against the commission itself. The development adds a new layer of tension to the political landscape in Maharashtra, highlighting the sensitive intersection of bureaucratic authority and electoral politics.
