Pune: The Maharashtra Urban Development Department has suspended Niganna Kallanna Patil, Chief Officer of the Talegaon Dabhade Municipal Council, for tarnishing the government's image and violating the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules. Deputy Secretary Aniruddha Jevalikar issued the suspension order on Monday (July 8).
N.K. Patil faced numerous complaints from local residents, municipal employees, and social organizations. Despite being transferred to Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation on December 1 due to these complaints, Patil challenged the transfer in court and resumed his position within a week.
Patil's negligence led to significant issues with health, water, sanitation, and other civic services in Talegaon Dabhade. He was also found to be using abusive language with employees and citizens, behaving inappropriately with female staff, misbehaving with journalists, and arriving at the office intoxicated.
On June 1, Patil, while driving under the influence, collided with another car and fled the scene, leading to a case being registered against him. Local residents demanded strict action and permanent suspension of the corrupt and negligent chief officer.
Reports supporting this demand were sent to the Urban Development Department by the Pune District Collector and the Assistant Commissioner of the Municipal Administration Department.
MLA Sunil Shelke pursued strict action against Patil with evidence and planned to raise the issue in the monsoon session of the legislature.
On Monday (July 8) evening, the Urban Development Department issued an order suspending Patil. He will remain suspended until further notice, with his headquarters at the Pune District Collector's office, and cannot leave without prior government permission. He is also barred from accepting private employment or engaging in business.
The suspension order has been welcomed by many citizens of Talegaon Dabhade. MLA Sunil Shelke stated, "I extend sincere gratitude on behalf of the citizens of Talegaon Dabhade to Honorable Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the Urban Development Department for suspending the inefficient, corrupt, and controversial Chief Officer."