In a move to ensure a transparent and impartial electoral process, the Congress party has called on the Election Commission to remove Director General of Police Rashmi Shukla from her post ahead of the upcoming state elections. Congress state president Nana Patole submitted a letter to the EC, raising concerns over Shukla's continued role and her alleged ties to the ruling BJP. According to Congress, Shukla, who was scheduled to retire on June 30, 2024, has been granted an extension until January 2026, a decision they claim violates the Maharashtra Police Act. The law mandates that the DGP's term should either be two years or end upon their retirement, whichever comes first. Patole emphasized that the extension was unlawful, suggesting that Shukla’s extended tenure compromises the fairness of the electoral process.
Meeting with Election Commissioner
Efforts to obtain a statement from Rashmi Shukla went unanswered, as she reportedly did not respond to requests for comment regarding the allegations and her extended term. During a two-day visit to Maharashtra, Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar met with a Congress delegation that included state general secretaries Munaf Hakim and Dr. Gajanan Desai. The delegation submitted a copy of Patole's letter, dated September 24, which formally requested Shukla's removal from office ahead of the polls. This request is part of Congress's broader efforts to ensure a level playing field during the elections.
Concerns and Objections
Addressing the media at Tilak Bhavan, Nana Patole expressed concerns over Shukla’s close association with the BJP-led government. He pointed out that, despite her scheduled retirement, the government extended her tenure by two years, allowing her to continue in a position of influence. Patole argued that keeping such officials in power during the election period could hinder the possibility of a fair electoral outcome. He further added that election officials had assured Congress that appropriate action would be taken. In addition to the call for Shukla’s removal, the Congress party raised objections to polling stations being set up in private residential societies. Party leaders insisted that all voting should take place in government buildings to maintain transparency.
Awaiting Response
Congress also highlighted concerns over the handling of polling data, with Munaf Hakim stating that Form 17C, which records polling data, should be handed over to polling agents immediately after voting ends to ensure the process remains open and verifiable. As the state prepares for the upcoming elections, the Congress party’s demands, including the removal of Shukla and changes to the location of polling stations, remain a focal point of their efforts to guarantee free and fair elections. The Election Commission is expected to review the party’s concerns and respond accordingly.
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