Congress demands CM’s resignation

Mumbai: The Congress has demanded the resignation of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis for endangering the services of the municipal commissioner and Mumbai commissioner by asking them to participate in the “River Anthem” video by NGO, River March. Opposing the participation of these officers, Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant cited the Maharashtra Civil Services Act 1979 and the All India Civil Services Act 1967.

Mr Sawant alleged that the music company, T-Series, has professional relations with the CM’s family members as the company’s logo can be seen throughout the video.

The CM participated in the “River Anthem” video of River March, where his wife Amruta Fadnavis can be seen singing in the video; and BMC chief Ajoy Mehta and Mumbai CP Datta Padsalgikar can also be seen participating. The Congress has raised questions over the participation of these officers and the CM in the video. On his part, the CM has clarified saying that there is no commercial intention and that participation has only been for the good cause of cleaning of rivers.

On Saturday however, Mr Sawant raised doubts over the chief minister’s office’s explanation.

 “According to the press-note of the CMO, the officers participated on their own. But the Mumbai CP could be seen in uniform in the video. How is it possible for officers to wear their uniforms when participating in such activities! Also, both are serving officers under the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS). Therefore, it is violation of article 13 (1) (F) of the All India Civil Services Act of 1968.

There should be strict action against them according to the rules and the CM should take moral responsibility for this and resign from his post,” demanded Mr Sawant.