Maharashtra Governor K. Sankaranarayanan on Thursday suspended State Information Commissioner Ramanand Tiwari for his involvement in the Adarsh Housing Society scam.
The move comes two days after Mr. Sankaranarayanan made a reference to the Supreme Court seeking Mr. Tiwari's removal.
The Governor suspended Mr. Tiwari “with immediate effect” under the powers conferred upon him under Section 17 (2) of the Right to Information Act (RTI), 2005.
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“In a four-page signed order, the Governor noted that he is satisfied that there are serious charges/ allegations made out in the reference to the Supreme Court under section 17(1) of RTI Act particularly with regard to [Mr. Tiwari's] alleged role in the Adarsh Housing Society Scam,” an official press note said.
The order says: “the Governor,” after considering the seriousness and the gravity of charges against Mr. Tiwari is of the view that to protect the sanctity of the high office of Information Commissioner as well as to protect the public trust on the institution, it is desirable that Mr. Tiwari should not be allowed to function as the State Information Commissioner during the pendency of enquiry initiated under section 17 (1) of the RTI Act 2005.”
It further says, “The Governor having carefully examined the entire material placed before him is satisfied that there is a prima facie case of misbehaviour and misconduct made out against Mr. Tiwari.”
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Despite several attempts Mr. Tiwari could not be reached on telephone. The order prohibits him from attending office till the enquiry is concluded or until further notice.