Former Maharashtra Finance Minister and senior BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar expressed strong discontent in the state legislative assembly on Tuesday over the continued absence of senior government officers and departmental secretaries during key discussions on public interest issues.
Speaking ahead of a special debate held under Rule 293 of the Maharashtra Legislature Rules which allows the House to deliberate on matters of significant public concern Mungantiwar criticized bureaucrats for failing to attend the session, despite its importance to state policy and development.
“Rule 293 debates are critical for the progress of Maharashtra. Ministers may be busy with departmental work, but why isn’t a single secretary present in the House?” Mungantiwar questioned, addressing Protem Speaker Chetan Tupe. “Back in 1995, when I became an MLA, departmental secretaries used to attend such sessions.”
In a dramatic comparison, Mungantiwar referenced the British Parliament, where historically, reluctant officials were even brought in by force. “If secretaries still fail to attend after your orders, can we explore something similar here?” he said, drawing laughter and applause from members.
Supporting Mungantiwar’s concerns, Shiv Sena MLA Arjun Khotkar from Jalna said the absence of officials reflects growing indifference. “This is a topic supported by nearly 50 to 60 MLAs. It outlines the vision for development across the state, including Mumbai. But how will issues be resolved if the administration shows such disinterest?”
Khotkar recalled earlier decades when there wasn’t even enough seating in the House due to the large number of attending officers. “Now, there is apathy. Can we really solve Maharashtra’s problems this way?”
Responding to the demands, Protem Speaker Chetan Tupe immediately issued directions, stating, “Even if the gallery is not visible to the public, officers must treat the discussion and sentiments of the House seriously. Many officers prefer to follow proceedings on television — if necessary, turn those TVs off so they are compelled to be physically present in the Assembly.”
He further instructed the government to take necessary action to ensure the attendance and participation of concerned officials in such debates.
