New 'Anti Corruption' GR by Govt of Maharashtra

[Atul Patankar]

The Government of Maharashtra (General Administration Department) has issued a new circular replacing all earlier circulars in this regard.

It declares that anti corruption committees will br formed at state, district and taluka (Tehsil) levels. The committees will have usual suspects like departmental heads from revenue, ploice, co-operation, forest, PWD, ACB, as ex-officio members, and upto 10 non-governemtn members. The guidelines for appointment of non-government members says these people may be ex babus, principals, freedom fighters, MLA/ LC/ corporators, NGO members, etc. One seat each reserved for women, SC, ST, OBC. Police verification necessary, but may be obtained after appointment. Appointments are for 2 years. A long list of 'duties and functions' is provided, but executive rights are only about initiating primary enquiry, and reporting to respective revenue department heads.

Secondly, if an RTI application brings to light a case of corruption or unnecessary delay, the department heads are asked to take immediate departmental action, and mention the findings in confidential report.

Attaching the circular (in Marathi). Will try to locate english version soon.