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In RTI’s request, Jeetendra Ghadge also asked BMC to share the names and designations of these officials, but refused to cite RTI’s rules. (image: PTI file)
The RTI report submitted by youth activist Jitendra Gadge showed that BMC had reinstated these officials despite their suspension for serious offences. Most of them were caught primarily in the act of accepting bribes
A Right to Information (RTI) inquiry revealed that BMC had reinstated approximately 116 officers, who were facing corruption charges, under the pretext of “Covid-19 duty”.
The RTI report submitted by youth activist Jitendra Gadge showed that the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reinstated these officials despite their suspension for serious offences.
Most of these officials were primarily caught red-handed for accepting bribes.
BMC has brought back 53 officials from the Department of Solid Waste Management, 23 from the City’s Department of Engineers, 6 each from the Water, Security, and Fire Departments, 17 from the Health Department, and 6 from three hospitals.
In RTI’s request, Gad also asked BMC to share the names and designations of those officials, but declined to cite RTI Rules 2005, 8(1)(j), which state that disclosure of information is unrelated to either public activity or interest.
When Gadj requested a copy of the reinstatement order for officials facing investigation by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), cases or had been suspended due to corruption charges, the RTI authority denied the existence of any such orders in the relevant office.
Judge said, “It is a matter of great concern that these officials continue to operate in the name of Covid duty despite the end of the pandemic and related duties. At a time when there are numerous allegations of corruption against BMC officials, it is unfortunate to see BMC trying to protect them and provide them with a back entrance.”
He claimed that the main reason BMC allowed the suspended officials was that they were already receiving half the salary. Instead of paying suspended officials half the salary, BMC should not pay during the suspension period and hire new officials. He added, “We appeal to BMC to prioritize hiring honest and qualified candidates rather than protecting corrupt officials.”
News18 reached out to BMC IS Director Chahal for his comment, who said, “There is a system through which we review suspensions. Even one of the Government Resolutions (GR) says suspended officers can be reinstated. While reinstating these officers, we have made it clear that they will not On any sensitive assignment or job. After suspension, they get paid and are not assigned any work. By reinstating them, we make them work so they don’t get a free salary.”
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