Navi Mumbai: Citizen activists from the city have appealed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to intervene in the controversial transfer of a senior official from the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO). The transfer order, issued on March 2, 2026, has sparked strong reactions among residents and civic groups, who are demanding that the decision be revoked.

Activists claim that the officer had introduced several reforms in the Estate and City Services Department (MTS), which earlier had a reputation for being dominated by agents. According to citizen groups, the officer implemented measures aimed at improving transparency and regulating public access to the department.

“The new Estate Officer undertook some positive reforms. Subsequently, the entry for unauthorized persons acting as CIDCO agents was restricted. Thus, bringing transparency to public dealings. However, such honest officers are being transferred within 1.5 years—well before the mandatory 3-year tenure,” said Trishila Kamble from Aware Citizens Forum, Navi Mumbai.

In a formal petition submitted to the Chief Minister, the Sajag Nagarik Manch has alleged that the transfer violates the provisions of the Transfer Act of 2005. The group claimed that while some “favoured” officials continue to occupy influential positions for 10 to 15 years, officers attempting to bring reforms are being shifted prematurely.

“We urge the Chief Minister to uphold his promise of a transparent administration by intervening in CIDCO's arbitrary functioning. Copies of this representation have been submitted to the Urban Development Secretary, the Lokayukta, and the Director General of the Anti-Corruption Bureau. We will also be appealing in the relevant forums to stop this transfer,” said Sudhir Dani, Belapur resident and President of Sajag Nagrik Manch.

Raising broader concerns about alleged irregularities within CIDCO, activists also accused the administration of long-standing issues such as corruption, bribery, and bureaucratic hurdles faced by citizens.

“CIDCO administration has been plagued by various negative things like corruption, bribery, obstruction of citizens, and the arrogance of agents. The citizens have come to believe that 'the wise should not step into the shoes of CIDCO'. The Chief Minister should put pressure on CIDCO, which has become a ‘repository of bribery and corruption’, and give Maharashtra a practical demonstration that we are truly the pioneers of corruption-free and transparent governance,” added Kamble.

When contacted, CIDCO officials declined to comment on the administrative matter.