Mumbai - The Maharashtra government has suspended IPS officer Quaiser Khalid with immediate effect due to his role in sanctioning the hoarding that collapsed in Ghatkopar on May 13, resulting in 17 deaths and 74 injuries.
Khalid, who was the then Commissioner of Police, Railways, Mumbai, had sanctioned the hoarding without the approval of the DGP office, deviating from the approved norms. The Director General of Police, Maharashtra State, had submitted a report highlighting the gross irregularities and administrative lapses in sanctioning the hoarding.
Bhavesh Bhide, director of Ego Media, which had erected the structure, has been arrested by the Mumbai Crime Branch. A case has been registered under IPC sections 304, 338, 337, and 34 against Bhide and others at Pantnagar police station.
The government's order states that disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against Khalid for his administrative lapses and irregularities in sanctioning the hoarding and misusing his powers.
The incident had occurred on May 13 amid strong winds and heavy rains in Mumbai's Ghatkopar area. The collapse of the hoarding had resulted in widespread damage and loss of life, leading to widespread outrage and calls for accountability.
