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PART IV
Mumbai
The Maharashtra government’s recent decision to convert 30 percent of the temporary positions within the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) to permanent positions has sparked widespread debate and controversy. Critics argue that this move is an attempt to protect officials who have been involved in irregular practices. By making their positions permanent, these officials would be insulated from scrutiny and potential disciplinary actions. There are concerns that this decision might have been influenced by higher authorities to safeguard their interests.
If the critics’ allegations hold true, then officials who have engaged in corrupt practices could significantly benefit from job security, making it harder to hold them accountable. The decision could also benefit political actors who have vested interests in maintaining the status quo within the SRA. By securing the positions of favored officials, they could continue to exert influence over the SRA’s operations. The decision to convert temporary positions to permanent ones was largely driven by demands from a former Minister of State for Urban Development and a BJP MLA from Mumbai. They argued that making these positions permanent would ensure stability and improve the efficiency of the SRA.
The SRA has a troubled history marked by numerous allegations of corruption, including irregular approvals and misuse of funds. This backdrop makes the recent policy shift particularly contentious, as it raises suspicions that those involved in corrupt practices may now be rewarded with job security. Opponents of the policy argue that converting temporary positions to permanent ones without transparent, merit-based hiring practices could allow individuals involved in illicit activities to secure their positions within the SRA. Critics are concerned that this decision might bypass established hiring and review processes, which are essential for ensuring that only qualified and ethical individuals are employed. By potentially sidestepping these procedures, the policy could facilitate the entrenchment of corrupt officials, thereby solidifying malpractice within the SRA.
Critics argue that the decision is causing the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to lose hundreds of billions of rupees and protecting corrupt personnel rather than prosecuting them. By granting these officials permanent status, the government may inadvertently embolden them, making them feel invincible and more confident in continuing their illegal activities under the assumption of protection. By securing permanent positions, officials involved in past scams may feel more protected and less vulnerable to investigations or disciplinary actions. This sense of invincibility could embolden them to continue their illicit activities, knowing that the government appears to be shielding them.
According to critics, Maharashtra typically follows a rigorous process to uphold merit and fairness when filling permanent positions in government agencies. The government ensures that only the most deserving applicants are chosen to serve the public through a standardized procedure that involves multiple levels of examination. This methodical approach not only enhances the effectiveness of government operations but also fosters citizen confidence in the integrity of the hiring process.
The procedure for filling permanent positions in Maharashtra government entities is transparent, methodical, and designed to uphold meritocracy. This comprehensive process involves several steps, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates are selected. An extensive examination of these usual processes is provided below:
Process of selection of candidate
1. Identification of vacancies: The process begins with the identification of vacant positions within various departments. Each department conducts an internal audit to determine the need for new appointments based on work load, retirements, promotions, and other factors. The vacancies, then report to the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC).
2. Approval and Notification : Following identification, the positions must be approved by the government or the relevant administrative authority. An formal notification is issued upon approval. Important information including the number of vacancies, the eligibility requirements, the application process, the exam schedule, significant dates, and other pertinent factors are all included in this notification.
3. Application Process : Applicants who are interested in applying for these roles need to send in their applications before the deadline. Typically, the MPSC’s official website is used for the online application procedure. Candidates need to pay the application fee, upload the required files, and complete their personal and educational information.
4. Screening of Applications : Following the deadline, applications are received and evaluated to make sure the candidates fit the requirements for eligibility. This preliminary screening aids in weeding out unqualified applicants so that only those who fulfil the prerequisites move on to the next round.
5. Written Examination : Following that, qualified applicants receive a call to appear for a written test. The official notification includes a syllabus and exam format. The test is intended to evaluate the candidates’ skills, knowledge, and fit for the position. The test may consist of several papers, including objective and descriptive types, depending on the post.
6. Results and Shortlisting : The official website announces the written exam results. Candidates are shortlisted for the following round based on their performance. Transparency is ensured by making the shortlisted candidates’ list and the cut-off marks publicly available.
7. Interview and/or Skill Test : Depending on the nature of the role, shortlisted candidates may be invited for a skill test or an interview. Experts in the field and high-ranking authorities typically make up the interview panel, which assesses applicants on their communication abilities, competence, and general fit for the position.
8. Document Verification : Upon passing the skill exam or interview, candidates must go through a document verification process. To confirm their age, caste (if applicable), educational background, and other pertinent information, they must produce original documentation. Disqualification may result from inconsistencies or document falsification.
9. Medical Examination : To make sure that applicants are both physically and psychologically ready for the role, a medical examination is performed. This is an important stage, particularly for jobs that need a specific degree of physical fitness.
10. Final Selection and Appointment : The final list of chosen candidates is created once each step has been completed successfully. Upon issuance of appointment letters, candidates must begin their respective posts within the allotted period. All requirements outlined in the offer letter must be met in order for the appointment to be made.
11. Training and Probation : Candidates who have recently been hired could go through a training session to get familiar with their duties. They could also be put on probation for a predetermined amount of time, during which time their performance is closely watched. Their permanent status is confirmed at the successful completion of the probationary period.
Regrettably, the Maharashtra government has chosen to make temporary positions permanent within the SRA instead of following the proper procedures to fill open vacancies. Critics argue that this decision has significant negative implications. By not adhering to the standard merit-based selection process, the government has denied many qualified but unemployed individuals the opportunity to compete for these permanent positions.
Critics claim that by making these positions permanent without proper authorization and oversight, the government is effectively promoting individuals who may not have been selected through a transparent and fair process.
Background and conclusion
The SRA was established with the noble goals of eliminating slums from Mumbai and providing long-term housing for slum dwellers. However, its reputation has been marred by multiple high-profile scandals involving unlawful approvals and significant financial losses for the BMC and the state government. These issues highlight the critical need for stringent oversight and transparency within the SRA. By enhancing oversight mechanisms, promoting transparency, enforcing accountability, and strengthening internal controls, the SRA can work towards regaining public trust and effectively fulfilling its mission.
