Daijiworld Media Network - Nagpur

Nagpur, Dec 11: Maharashtra Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat announced in the Legislative Council on Thursday that two officials found guilty in the investigation of bogus caste validity certificates in the Vimukta Jati (A) category in Buldhana district have been suspended. The announcement came in response to a calling attention motion by Congress legislator Rajesh Rathod regarding the issuance of fraudulent caste certificates.

Minister Shirsat revealed that the Buldhana Caste Verification Committee committed serious lapses in 2011-12, issuing certificates without proper verification. He emphasized that the government is committed to preventing such incidents in the future and confirmed that further action will be taken against the erring officials. Instructions have also been given for a thorough police inquiry to ensure the protection of Rathod, who had exposed the malpractice.

Shirsat noted that disciplinary action cannot be taken against the retired Additional District Collector involved in the case, but his role will still be investigated. The Minister further stressed that the state intends to overhaul and strengthen the caste verification system moving forward.

In a separate update, Maharashtra Cooperation Minister Babasaheb Patil addressed concerns regarding the Yavatmal District Central Cooperative Bank in the Legislative Assembly. Responding to legislator Anil Mangulkar, he clarified that no financial or recruitment irregularities have been found. The Rs 516.65 crore figure cited by the legislator was attributed to a misinterpretation of a 2019 entry.

Patil explained that recruitment for the bank was allowed for 50 per cent of the requested 267 posts, and no “bogus recruitment” has occurred. While the bank’s NPA has increased over four years, management expenses remain under two per cent. He added that a District Special Auditor was appointed on November 28, and appropriate action will follow once the report is submitted.