Navi Mumbai News: Sajag Nagrik Manch Seeks Probe Into NMMC Transfer Irregularities, Demands Transparent Lottery System

The Sajag Nagrik Manch has called for urgent and transparent intervention in the functioning of the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), following reports of corruption in staff transfers. The organization has demanded that the Municipal Commissioner issue instructions to all department heads to prepare a list of employees and officers who, as of April 30, 2025, have completed the maximum permissible tenure in one department or post, as per the Maharashtra Government Transfers and Postings Regulation Act, 2005.

The Manch further urges that all such transfers be carried out through a completely transparent open lottery process. This lottery should be conducted in the presence of the Additional Commissioner, Deputy Commissioners, departmental heads, and members of the media, during the General Body meeting of the corporation. Such a move is essential to reinforce public confidence in the corporation’s functioning.

Employees and officers currently posted in highly sought-after or so-called “cream postings” must be promptly transferred to other departments if they have completed their maximum tenure. This is in accordance with the principle of rotational postings and to break the existing nexus that fosters corruption.

Given that discussions of bribery and favoritism in transfers have persisted openly within the civic body for years, the Manch has called for a high-level inquiry into these irregularities. The findings of this investigation must lead to concrete administrative action against those involved.

To prevent such corruption from recurring, the Manch demands the adoption of a technology-driven, automated transfer system that eliminates human intervention altogether. Such a system would ensure fairness, impartiality, and eliminate the scope for political or monetary influence.

The Sajag Nagrik Manch expects that the NMMC will treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves and take immediate steps to restore transparency and accountability in its administrative processes.

Copies of this memorandum have also been submitted to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, and the Secretary of the Urban Development Department for urgent attention and action.