Mumbai Deputy Director Of Education Sandeep Sangve Suspended Over Corruption Allegations

Mumbai: Sandeep Sangve, Deputy Director of Education (Mumbai), was suspended following serious allegations of corruption, irregularities in teacher payments, and misuse of government funds. The suspension was announced by School Education Minister Dada Bhuse, who also ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe to submit a detailed report within eight days.

The issue was raised through a calling attention motion by BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay in the state assembly, who accused Sangve of being at the center of a large-scale scam involving salary frauds, manipulation of educational data (Shalarth IDs), and irregularities in school adjustments affecting over 150 teachers in day and night schools.

While addressing the House, MLA Upadhyay launched a scathing attack on Sangve, alleging that the officer had been misusing his position to illegally approve backdated files, resulting in the embezzlement of crores of rupees from the state treasury.

“Sandeep Sangve acts like he is untouchable. He openly boasts that no one can take action against him,” Upadhyay stated, adding that Sangve had managed to approve hundreds of files by manipulating dates to siphon off funds fraudulently.

Upadhyay further alleged that Sangve's agents approached him, challenging him to not raise the matter in the Assembly, hinting at threats and intimidation. He also claimed that municipal officials were spying on him, and that Sangve had made offers to MLAs in exchange for not questioning him.

“This man has held the same post for 13 years, and now there's talk of him offering Rs 5 crore to influence the entire Assembly,” Upadhyay said, questioning how such a powerful officer had escaped scrutiny for so long.

The revelations sparked outrage across party lines, with multiple MLAs from different parties demanding Sangve's immediate suspension. MLA Randhir Sawarkar backed the allegations, claiming that Sangve was attempting to “control the Assembly” through financial influence.

Despite Education Minister Dada Bhuse’s initial assurances of an inquiry, dissatisfaction among members led to an uproar in the House. Amid mounting pressure, Bhuse announced Sangve’s suspension, confirming that a Special Investigation Team would carry out a detailed investigation and submit a report within eight days.

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What Is the Case About?

Shalarth ID Manipulation: Sangve allegedly tampered with Shalarth IDs (teacher records and salary systems) to divert funds.

Illegal Salary Disbursements: Funds meant for salaries of around 150 teachers were reportedly misappropriated.

Backdated File Approvals: Dozens of files were allegedly cleared using false dates to approve fraudulent payments.

Bribery and Threats: Sangve was accused of attempting to bribe legislators and intimidate those raising concerns.

Minister Bhuse has assured the House that the government will not shield any corrupt official, regardless of their influence. The SIT probe is expected to examine financial records, file clearances, digital footprints related to the Shalarth system, and other relevant documentation.