Haven't sanctioned ACP Mahabole's transfer: CM Chavan

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday categorically said that the proposal to transfer Assistant Commissioner of Police P Anil Mahabole had not come to him for sanction.

"As per rules, the proposal for his transfer should come to me, but I have not received any proposal nor have I signed any papers to this effect," Chavan told reporters.

Senior police officers said that Mahabole, who was heading the Azad Maidan police division, is now attached to the local arms control room, with Shashikant Satav replacing him.

On Monday, Mahabole, who could be questioned in connection with the murder of senior journalist J Dey, was abruptly shunted to local arms control room in suburban Naigaon from the in-charge post of Azad Maidan division in south Mumbai.

Replying to questions on the progress of investigation into the murder, Chavan said he was seeking updates from the investigative team.

"They have got substantial leads and a breakthrough is expected soon. The police are close to reaching a point. They have set up five to six teams and are probing five to six angles in the case," Chavan said.

Speaking about the demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the case, the chief minister said it would be too early to make such a demand.

"Unless the police feel that they are not able to make headway into the case, no other decision can be taken. Let the police do their job and we should not do anything to demoralise them," he said.

Chavan said there is no evidence that certain police officers can tamper with proof in the murder case. "In case, that happens, necessary action would be taken," he added.

To a question if he was happy with the law and order situation in the state, Chavan urged that sweeping statements like deterioration of law and order should not be made.

"Any such incident is not good for the state. We have to ensure that such things do not happen," he added.

When asked about the proposed legislation to curb attacks on journalists, Chavan said he would discuss the matter in the cabinet meeting on Wednesday and try to evolve a consensus.