Iqbal Singh Chahal has been appointed as the Additional Chief Secretary in Maharashtra’s Home Department, filling the vacancy left after Sujata Saunik’s elevation to Chief Secretary. Chahal’s appointment comes at a critical time for the state government and police, who are under scrutiny following the recent agitation in Badlapur and the ensuing developments in a local school’s sexual assault case.
Chahal, who currently serves as Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, was previously the Municipal Commissioner of Mumbai. His new role in the Home Department comes as the state grapples with political and social challenges.
Iqbal Chahal brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served as Collector of Thane for nearly four years and Aurangabad for an additional four years. His extensive administrative background also includes tenures as the State Excise Commissioner and Managing Director of MHADA. In 2021, Chahal was honoured with the prestigious Newsmakers Achievers Award for his outstanding contributions.
Despite her promotion, Sujata Saunik had retained additional charge of the Home Department until Chahal’s appointment. Chahal, a 1989 batch IAS officer, was removed as BMC Commissioner by the Election Commission of India during the Lok Sabha elections. He held the position of civic chief from May 2020 to March 2024 and is considered close to the ruling Mahayuti government.
