Maharashtra Disability Commissioner’s Office Seen Suffering From Chronic Instability, Says Report

Over the past 25 years, 56 officers have held the post of State Disability Commissioner in Maharashtra, but only two completed full terms — raising concerns over inconsistent leadership and stalled welfare work.

Pune | December 3, 2025: For more than two decades, Maharashtra’s Disability Commissionerate has struggled with an unusual level of administrative instability. In the past 25 years, the key post of State Disability Commissioner has been occupied by 56 different officers, but only two completed their full tenure. Most appointees either held the role temporarily or were transferred before completing the standard three-year term.

The lack of continuity has had a visible impact on the functioning of the department. Important responsibilities such as monitoring disability welfare schemes, ensuring compliance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, and resolving long-pending cases have often slowed down due to interruptions in leadership. Stakeholders say the system becomes reactive instead of proactive when a new official is appointed every few months.

Currently, the post has reportedly remained vacant, with an officer from a related department handling the charge on a temporary basis. This arrangement, officials say, has further delayed some policy decisions and approvals at a time when disability-related services require consistent oversight.

Activists and advocacy groups argue that the Commissionerate needs a stable, full-time head who can take long-term decisions, track progress, and build continuity. They also suggest appointing someone with subject-matter expertise or lived experience in disability issues to strengthen leadership.

The prolonged administrative churn has raised concerns about governance gaps and the long-term impact on services meant for citizens who depend on these systems the most. Many believe that unless the state ensures stability at the top, the goals of accessibility, welfare, and timely redressal will continue to face delays.

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