Bombay HC notice to EC, Maharashtra government on transfers during model code of conduct

The Bombay High Court on Wednesday issued notices to the Election Commission of India, Maharashtra government, former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan and others on a petition challenging transfers and promotions effected before the 2014 assembly elections when the model code of conduct was in force.

The division bench of Justices Naresh Patil and S B Shukare sought replies from respondents within four weeks. The other respondents are Union of India, state election officer, secretaries of general administration, agriculture, dairy development, public health and higher education and technical education.

Petitioner Hemant Patil, state coordinator of BSP, argues that respondents issued various orders pertaining to transfers and promotions when the code of conduct was in force. These transfers or promotions are therefore illegal and should be cancelled, said Patil's lawyer R N Kachave. The petitioner claims he had made a representation to the Election Commission of India, seeking cancellation of these transfers and promotions but no action was taken.