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It is unlikely that Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik will be appointed as the State Election Commission (SEC). According to sources, Nitin Kareer is currently the frontrunner for the post. Retired IAS officer UPS Madan, who has been serving as the SEC, will complete his five-year term in September.
Saunik, who became the first woman Chief Secretary of the state on June 30, was chosen over Additional Chief Secretary Iqbal Singh Chahal. Saunik's current term as Chief Secretary is set to end on May 31, 2025. She would serve a five-year term if she were to be transferred to the SEC.
Recently, the opposition strongly criticised the state government over the possible appointment of Saunik as the SEC. They suggested that this move could pave the way for Chahal to take her position.
The Congress questioned whether this was intended to help Chahal, who is close to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, secure the top post. Chahal was recently assigned the role of ACS Home.
