In Covid, FDCM transfers 57 forest guards, violates GR

Nagpur: The Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM) is once again in the eye of a storm, for transferring 57 forest guards. Ajay Patil, president, Maharashtra State Forest Guards and Promoted Foresters Union, said the transfers during Covid-19 pandemic are in complete violation of state government directions.
On May 3, chief general manager (CGM) Rishikesh Ranjan issued an order to transfer 57 forest guards on administrative ground in five FDCM division – Nagpur, Bhandara, Gondia, Yavatmal, and Kinwat.
Patil said last year the government had allowed transfers till August 2020. From August till May 9, 2021, no new transfer guidelines were issued. As several departments were inquiring about directions on transfers, on May 10, 2021, the general administrative department (GAD) issued a GR clarifying that considering the spread of Covid-19, no employees should be transferred till June 30, 2021.
“Only transfers allowed were posts that have fell vacant post-retirement, posts which are essential to arrest the spread of Covid-19, and thirdly transfer of employees against whom there are serious charges and complaints,” the GAD has clarified.
Yet, FDCM transferred forest guards dubbing them as administrative urgency. However, Patil asks, “When working is not in full swing due to Covid, what is the urgency?”
CGM Ranjan said, “Though the order was issued on May 3, we are making it effective from July 1. These guards were posted at one place for six years and hence transfers were necessary. There were 109 guards due for transfer but we shifted only 57.” However, Ranjan also admitted that those willing to join new places of postings are free to go.
Patil said, “Coronavirus is showing dangerous trend in rural areas. Besides, there are travel restrictions and other problems. Forest employees too are vulnerable to Covid-19 and under such a situation the transfer order should be scrapped. It smacks of vested interest.”