Rashmi Shukla
– Photo: ANI
Expansion
Ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Election Commission on Monday directed the state government to transfer DGP Rashmi Shukla with immediate effect. This action was taken after complaints from many political parties including Congress, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray). Meanwhile, there is news that Vivek Phansalkar has been given the charge of DGP in place of Rashmi Shukla.
According to sources, the Election Commission directed the Chief Secretary of Maharashtra to hand over the charge of Rashmi Shukla to the next senior most IPS officer of the cadre. The Chief Secretary was also directed to send a panel of three IPS officers by Tuesday afternoon for appointment to the post of DGP.
Election on 20th November
People will use their franchise for the assembly elections in Maharashtra on 20th November. During a review meeting recently, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajeev Kumar warned officials to not only be impartial but also ensure that they are not seen to be biased while performing their duties.
expressed concern over politically motivated crimes
Earlier on October 29, Rajiv Kumar had expressed concern over politically motivated crimes in Maharashtra and asked DGP Shukla to ensure strict action against such incidents.
Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray welcomed the decision
On the transfer order, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray said that we welcome the decision taken by the Election Commission against Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla. Sharad Pawar also termed this decision as right.
Nana Patole wrote a letter to the Election Commission
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole wrote a letter to the Election Commission. The letter said that the Election Commission is requested to ensure that DGP Rashmi Shukla is not appointed to any other post, so that the legal framework is followed and public confidence in the institution is strengthened.
Baba Siddiqui’s murder creates political uproar
Earlier, the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddiqui had created a political uproar. On October 12, he was shot dead by three gunmen in Bandra East.