MUMBAI: Uncertainty over cabinet expansion was confirmed on Friday following a six-line order issued by chief secretary Manukumar Srivastava. On the directives of chief minister Eknath Shinde, Srivastava stated bureaucrats have been entrusted with quasi-judicial powers enjoyed by cabinet members until further orders.
As per practice as well as rules, ministers and ministers of state are entrusted with quasi-judicial powers. They have powers to hear appeals as well as review applications, pass interim orders and orders on urgent applications. Now, an additional chief secretary, principal secretary and secretary of the concerned department is given these powers.
