Controversial Cop Lands MPSC Role
• MPSC Integrity Under Fire
• Political Storm Over MPSC Pick
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
Contact: +91 9322755098
The appointment of controversial IPS officer Dilip Bhujbal to the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has triggered a political storm. Despite past suspensions and legal controversies, Bhujbal’s selection raises concerns over integrity norms, transparency, and political interference in constitutional bodies, sparking criticism from civil society and opposition leaders alike.
• Controversial IPS Officer Appointed to MPSC Sparks Political Storm
The recent appointment of Special Inspector General of Police Dilip Bhujbal as a member of the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has stirred significant debate within administrative and political circles. Known for his controversial past, Bhujbal’s elevation to the constitutional body tasked with recruiting Maharashtra’s top bureaucrats has raised both eyebrows and concerns.
The MPSC plays a pivotal role in selecting officers who are expected to maintain high ethical standards and demonstrate administrative efficiency. Bhujbal’s induction, given his previously tainted record, contradicts the Commission’s mission to ensure transparency and merit-based appointments, according to various administrative observers consulted by the Sprouts News Investigation Team (SIT).
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MPSC Appointment Controversy: Allegations vs Acquittals
Bhujbal was suspended in 2004 while serving as Deputy Commissioner of Police in Mumbai following a major toxic liquor tragedy that resulted in multiple fatalities. Although he was later acquitted of all charges, his past continues to shadow his professional image. Critics argue that MPSC’s eligibility guidelines stress an “impeccable character,” which should automatically disqualify candidates with controversial service histories, regardless of court verdicts.
Following the Mumbai episode, Bhujbal’s postings in Yavatmal, Amravati Rural, and Buldhana districts as Superintendent of Police were also subject to scrutiny. Sources from SIT note that objections were raised at the time of his direct promotion from SP to the rank of Inspector General, an unusual elevation path in the Maharashtra Police hierarchy.
Government Appoints Three Members to Speed Up MPSC Processes
In a broader administrative reshuffle aimed at accelerating recruitment processes and improving exam result timelines, the Maharashtra government has appointed three new MPSC members—Dilip Bhujbal, Rajeev Nivratkar, and Mahendra Warbhuvan. This decision increases the Commission’s strength, enabling faster decision-making and reducing the backlog of pending recruitments.
The appointments were formalized on Tuesday at the MPSC headquarters in Navi Mumbai. Commission Chairman Rajnish Seth administered the oath of secrecy to Nivratkar and Warbhuvan. Bhujbal is expected to assume office shortly. These appointments come at a time when public pressure on expediting state examinations and postings has reached a peak.
According to internal sources, SIT has learned that the new appointments aim to streamline MPSC functioning before upcoming examination cycles, particularly given delays experienced in 2023 and early 2024.
MPSC Appointment Guidelines Stress Unblemished Career and Integrity
A Government Resolution (GR) dated September 11, 2019, outlines strict criteria for appointments to the MPSC. It explicitly requires candidates to possess “undoubted integrity, an unblemished career, and impeccable character.” These terms are not just aspirational—they form a binding framework meant to uphold the Commission’s credibility.
The Sprouts News Investigation Team (SIT) examined the GR, confirming that these standards were designed to eliminate potential political influence or ethical ambiguity in appointments. Given this framework, Bhujbal’s inclusion raises questions about procedural adherence and whether a loophole was used to bypass scrutiny.
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Bhujbal Defends His Reputation Amid Mounting Criticism
Responding to criticism, Bhujbal stated that all legal and administrative inquiries have exonerated him. “The judiciary has dismissed all allegations and acquitted me. Various government committees have also exonerated me. I have received promotions based on merit. However, some individuals continue to make baseless accusations,” he told reporters.
Despite his defense, legal experts and former civil servants point out that acquittal does not necessarily imply exoneration in the public interest context—especially when constitutional appointments are at stake. The core question remains: Should MPSC appointments be based solely on legal status or also on public perception and institutional trust?
Political Reactions and Administrative Implications
The opposition has already begun questioning the state government’s rationale behind Bhujbal’s appointment. Several political analysts speculate that the move could lead to wider debates about political interference in constitutional institutions. Civil society groups have also demanded a review of appointments to ensure transparency.
If left unaddressed, this episode could erode public faith in the MPSC—a body historically seen as an independent and credible recruiter for Maharashtra’s civil services.
For more updates on MPSC reforms, constitutional appointments, and public sector integrity, stay tuned to Sprouts News Investigation Team (SIT).
