ECI Transfers Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla Amid Phone-Tapping Complaints Ahead of State Elections

Nov 4, 2024, 07:05 AM

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has ordered the immediate transfer of Maharashtra's Director General of Police (DGP), Rashmi Shukla, acting on complaints from the Indian National Congress (INC) and other opposition parties. The parties accused Shukla of unauthorized phone tapping ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections scheduled for 2024. The Chief Secretary of Maharashtra has been directed to hand over her charge to the next senior-most Indian Police Service (IPS) officer in the cadre and to submit a panel of three IPS officers for the appointment of a new DGP. Political leaders have responded to the ECI's decision. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar welcomed the move, stating, "We welcome this decision of the Election Commission." Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray also expressed support, saying, "We welcome the decision taken by the Election Commission against Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla." The ECI's directive, effective immediately, underscores its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process in Maharashtra. The transfer of DGP Shukla is seen as a significant step in maintaining the integrity of the upcoming elections.