EPFO Comes With Additional 2 Regional Offices In Pune, RPFCs Accountability To Increase

Tikam Shekhawat

Pune, 19th February 2024: Pune, renowned for its status as an Auto and Auto Ancillary hub along with hosting top IT giants, currently houses two regional offices of the ‘Employee Provident Fund Organisation’ – one at RO-Pune Cantonment and another at RO–Akurdi. However, the city is set to welcome two additional regional offices, namely RO-Viman Nagar and RO-Hinjawadi. The Pune Region EPFO, spanning all offices, boasts approximately 24,000 registered establishments. Presently, around 24.27 lakhs members are enrolled with the Pune Region EPFO.

In terms of challenges faced by EPFO members, the year 2023 saw the organization making headlines for undesired reasons. Many EPF members attempting to access the e-passbook online encountered a “404 error,” attributed to EPFO server issues. Some subscribers trying to access the Passbook on the EPFO portal also faced difficulties. Furthermore, officers of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) directed a stern communication to the Central government, criticizing its inaction in addressing PF’s software system issues and server replacements. This communication was sent to Union Labour and Employment Minister Bhupender Yadav.

In recent years, EPFO Maharashtra has made negative news for ‘resolving cases and settling dues’ raised under Section 7A of ‘The Employees’ Provident Funds And Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952.’ In December 2023, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered a case. According to the CBI, EPFO officials conspired with a private PF consultant to receive bribes from a Nashik-based firm. Acting on a complaint, the CBI set a trap, gathered necessary evidence, and arrested individuals involved in the case. The CBI recovered incriminating materials, including cash and diaries containing details of undue advantages taken by the accused. Ultimately, the CBI arrested PF Commissioner (RPFC) Ganesh Arote, EPFO Enforcement Officer Ajay Ahuja, and private individual BS Mangalkar.

In Pune, RO Pune-Akurdi, situated in the midst of Pimpri Chinchwad and Chakan, hosts the majority of the industries (approximately 6900). With the increasing number of establishments, the accountability of all RPFCs has significantly heightened to ensure the delivery of services to members in a clean and smooth manner.