MPSC secretary Mahendra Harpalkar relieved as candidates continue protest
Harpalkar was appointed to the MPSC post on deputation for two years in Dec 2025. Mumbai: State govt has terminated the deputation of Mahendra Harpalkar as Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) secretary amid allegations of question paper leaks and irregularities in examinations conducted by the commission.
The judicial inquiry will be conducted within three months under Article 317 of the Constitution, as sought by the aspirants. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mumbai | Silver Rate in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai | Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Petrol Price in Mumbai | Diesel Price in Mumbai | CNG Price in Mumbai | LPG Price in Mumbai Stay updated with the latest Mumbai news.
“The transfer of the MPSC secretary will be carried out immediately,” govt officials said. Further action would be taken based on its findings, officials said. Govt said MPSC examinations would continue to be conducted offline and no change would be made without discussions with all stakeholders.
The GAD order also directed Harpalkar to immediately hand over charge of the post of MPSC secretary to another officer with the consent of MPSC. Harpalkar’s removal was among the demands raised by protesting MPSC exam aspirants. NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar , who has raised the issue of MPSC aspirants, has now stepped up demand for the resignation of MPSC chairperson Vivek Bhimanwar. “Victory of Student Unity. MPSC Secretary Mahendra Harpalkar’s long-awaited transfer has finally happened — gratitude to the govt for this! Now, only one major issue remains, and that is removing the corrupt Chairperson! The govt should set aside its ego, understand the genuine sentiments of the students, and immediately remove Chairperson Bhimanwar from the post,” Rohit posted on social media. The decisions followed a detailed meeting between chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and a delegation of aspirants preparing for MPSC exams. Download the TOI App.
State General Administration Department (GAD) order issued on Thursday said Harpalkar’s appointment was terminated for administrative reasons and that a separate order regarding his new posting would be issued. State govt on Wednesday announced Harpalkar’s immediate transfer and agreed to a judicial inquiry into the functioning of the former and incumbent MPSC chairpersons and members.