Who is M Devender Singh? IAS officer suspended for not attending min briefing

MUMBAI: M Devender Singh is an IAS officer of the 2011 batch and currently serves as the Member Secretary of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). He has been placed under suspension pending disciplinary proceedings, following allegations of insubordination. The issue came to light when Environment Minister Pankaja Munde told the legislative assembly that Singh had repeatedly failed to attend her ministerial briefings despite several reminders. Singh reportedly even told the minister that he would not attend the meetings. Following this, Panel Speaker Dilip Lande directed Singh’s suspension. BJP MLA Sudhir Mungatiwar criticised the officer’s conduct, calling it a “murder of democracy” and demanding strict action.

He said “Nothing can be more serious than this. This is nothing but coldblooded murder of democracy... if officers are not showing up for briefing the minister. Such officials therefore must be suspended. Their names must be taken and a breach of privilege should be moved against them suo motu.

Pankaja Munde is a cabinet minister. A message must be given to all officers and this message should serve for the next 100 years.”

The government’s suspension order stated, “Whereas disciplinary proceeding against M Devender Singh, Member Secretary, MPCB is contemplated. Now, therefore, government of Maharashtra in exercise of powers conferred by clause (a) of sub-rule (i) of rule 3 of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, hereby places M Devender Singh, Member Secretary, MPCB under suspension with immediate effect” Mungatiwar also added, “Minister Pankaja Munde said an IAS officer says he would not attend the briefing.

The panel Speaker thereafter ordered his suspension on Thursday. Accordingly, such an action should be taken within 24 hours. This incident happened on Thursday and he was suspended on Friday. In future, this officer should be put in jail. Saying I will not come to give a briefing to the minister is an insult to the Constitution.

Punish that officer because this is a provision in the Constitution. Some officers have gone a step further; 75% of the district collectors are arrogant, and say MLAs keep changing, we will remain. They must give respect and take respect.”