The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (Mhada) has initiated disciplinary action against 25 employees for allegedly attempting to influence their transfers using external recommendations. The employees, belonging to Class III and IV categories, include clerks, assistants, technicians, peons, surveyors, civil engineering assistants, and stenotypists.
These individuals, drawn from various departments within Mhada’s multiple regional boards, reportedly submitted letters from elected representatives to either avoid transfers or secure postings in more desirable departments. Departments dealing with estate management, building repair permissions, reconstruction, and legal affairs are particularly sought after due to the sensitive and high-stakes nature of their work.
As per Mhada’s internal policies, non-secretariat Class III staff are permitted a maximum of two three-year tenures — totalling six years — in a particular post before being transferred. Class IV employees, though not bound by a fixed tenure, may be moved in response to complaints or administrative decisions. Despite this framework, the use of external influence to manipulate postings remains a persistent issue.
Last month, all 25 employees received notices and were given 48 hours to respond in writing. Their replies are now under review. Mhada authorities are currently assessing the merit of each case, with decisions pending on whether to conduct hearings or issue final orders.
The situation highlights ongoing concerns around administrative integrity. A circular issued over a decade ago had clearly prohibited the use of recommendation letters from elected or influential individuals in matters of staffing and transfers. However, the recurrence of such attempts prove how challenging it is for Mhada to enforce its transfer policies without external interference.
