Mumbai: As Maharashtra Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, an IAS officer of the 1987 batch, prepares to retire at the end of June 2025, the race to succeed her has intensified, with several high-ranking bureaucrats emerging as frontrunners for the state’s top administrative post.
In a significant milestone for gender representation in Maharashtra’s bureaucracy, senior IAS officer Sujata Saunik was appointed as the state’s first female Chief Secretary. She assumed office on June 30, 2024, succeeding Nitin Kareer upon his retirement. Prior to her appointment, she was serving as Additional Chief Secretary in the state’s Home Department and had recently been promoted to the rank of Secretary.
She will step down after completing a distinguished career spanning over three decades.
Top Contenders Emerge Amid Intense Speculation
Among the names doing the rounds in bureaucratic and political circles, Rajesh Kumar (IAS: 1988), currently serving as Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue), is being considered a strong contender.
Rajesh Aggarwal (IAS: 1989), currently posted as Secretary in the Union Ministry of Social Justice, was initially seen as a potential candidate. However, insiders suggest that the Centre may not relieve him, effectively ruling him out of the race.
That narrows the field further to I S Chahal (IAS: 1989), Additional Chief Secretary (Home), who is now emerging as a leading choice, according to senior officials familiar with the deliberations. Chahal, known for his administrative experience and role during the COVID-19 crisis in Mumbai, is reportedly the frontrunner.
Other Names Also in the Mix
While Chahal’s name is gaining traction, other seasoned bureaucrats are also believed to be under consideration:
Manisha Patankar Mhaiskar (IAS: 1992), Additional Chief Secretary (PWD), a well-regarded officer with significant urban development experience.
Anil Diggikar (IAS: 1990), currently Additional Chief Secretary for Divyang Kalyan Department, who has previously served in several key infrastructure roles.
Bhushan Gagrani (IAS: 1990), Commissioner of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), a senior officer with both state and municipal governance credentials.
While these names are being considered, sources indicate that bureaucratic seniority, clean track record, and political acceptability will be key deciding factors in the final selection.
Decision Expected Soon
The Maharashtra government is expected to announce the next Chief Secretary shortly, possibly before the end of the month. The decision will be critical as the state navigates key infrastructure projects, fiscal planning, and coordination with the central government, particularly with the run-up to upcoming elections.
With Sujata Saunik’s departure, the choice of her successor will also reflect the administrative priorities of the current state leadership under Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
