ECI rejects proposal to appoint Saunik as CS; extension for Kareer sought

ECI

Mumbai (29.03.2024): The Maharashtra government has sent a proposal to the Centre asking three-month extension for Chief Secretary Nitin Kareer (IAS: 1988: MH) after the Election Commission of India (ECI) rejected its proposal to make Sujata Saunik (IAS: 1987: MH) as the CS.

The concurrence of the EC is needed because elections in every state are held under the supervision of the CS and Director General of Police. Kareer, who is retiring on March 31, did not get a proposal for his extension by the state. Generally, senior officers get an extension till the election process is completed.

Reportedly, the state government sent a proposal seeking the appointment of Sujata Saunik as the CS. However, the EC was not satisfied and asked for a panel of three officers. Later, the state sent names of Saunik, Rajesh Kumar (IAS: 1988: MH) and Iqbal Singh Chahal (IAS: 1989: MH).