EC shifts state DGP amid bias claims

In a notable shift just before Maharashtra's assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered the transfer of Director General of Police (DGP) Rashmi Shukla, following persistent pressure from the Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

- Kalpesh Mhamunkar

The transfer came after weeks of intense lobbying by Congress leaders, who argued that Shukla's tenure had compromised electoral fairness in the state.

Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, in compliance with the ECI's directive, has been instructed to present a list of three eligible senior IPS officers by Tuesday afternoon. Until a permanent replacement is named, Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar will assume charge of Shukla's duties as interim DGP.

State Congress President Nana Patole spearheaded calls for Shukla's removal, accusing her of political bias and alleging that she sanctioned the tapping of opposition leaders' phones. Patole cited Shukla's prior controversies in illegal phone tapping cases when she served as Pune Police Commissioner.