MADHUKER G. E. PANKAKAR vs JASWANT CHOBBILDAS RAJANI & ORS.

The Supreme Court held that a private medical practitioner listed under the Employees State Insurance Scheme does not hold an 'office of profit' as defined under Section 16(1)(g) of the Maharashtra Municipalities Act, 1965. The Court emphasized that the purpose of disqualifying such offices is to prevent conflicts of interest, while also recognizing the need for technical expertise in public welfare roles. The appellant's election was upheld as he had resigned from the panel before the election, thus not disqualifying him under the cited provision.