Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Secretary Nitin Kareer’s term has been extended by three months, allowing him to continue in his role through the upcoming General Elections starting April 19. The central government approved the state’s proposal for Kareer’s extension, allowing him to serve until June 30, 2024.
In a letter issued on March 30, Bhupinder Pal Singh, undersecretary of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, said, “I am directed to refer to the proposal of government of Maharashtra and convey the approval of the central government for extension of service of Dr Nitin Kareer, chief secretary for a period of three months from April 1 to June 30, 2024.”
Initially, the state government proposed Sujata Saunik as the new chief secretary, but the Election Commission of India rejected this proposal. They also declined a panel of three other candidates, including Saunik, additional chief secretary (revenue) Rajesh Kumar and additional chief secretary in chief minister‘s office Iqbal Singh Chahal.
The commission instead recommended extending Kareer’s tenure and asked the state government to submit a proposal, which was then sent to the Prime Minister’s Office for approval.
