IAS N Prasanth Suspended for 8th Time in Kerala Over Media Comments Against Govt; Disciplinary Action Initiated

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Government has once again suspended IAS officer N Prasanth(2007 batch), marking the eighth instance of disciplinary action against him since he assumed office.

The latest move follows a series of statements allegedly made by the officer criticising the government through news reports, interviews, video content, online publications, and social media posts.

Fresh Action Over Media Comments and Public Appearances

According to official sources, the state government initiated disciplinary proceedings after N Prasanth reportedly made unauthorised comments against the administration in various media interactions.

In recent days, he is said to have appeared on television chat shows and YouTube channels, where he made remarks critical of the government, prompting fresh action.

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Suspension Continues Ahead of Expiry Deadline

N Prasanth was originally placed under suspension on November 11, 2024, for levelling serious allegations against senior bureaucrats, including:

• Jayathilak (then Additional Chief Secretary, now Chief Secretary)
• Sarada Muraleedharan

Since then, his suspension has been extended multiple times.

The suspension period, which had already been extended till November 2025 and later to May 6, 2026, was nearing its end. However, with just days remaining, the government has issued a fresh order continuing his suspension, citing his recent public statements.

Background: Earlier Suspension Over Social Media Post

The officer was first suspended in 2022 after a Facebook post in which he criticised bureaucratic practices and government policies.

This initial action set off a prolonged period of disciplinary proceedings, with multiple extensions and fresh allegations over time.

Pattern of Disciplinary Action Raises Questions

With the latest order, N Prasanth has now faced eight instances of disciplinary action, making it one of the most prolonged and contentious cases involving a serving IAS officer in the state.

The repeated suspensions highlight an ongoing standoff between the officer and the state administration over issues of conduct, public communication, and service rules.

Ongoing Developments

Officials have not disclosed further details regarding the duration of the latest suspension or the next course of action. However, the case continues to draw attention within administrative circles due to its unusual length and recurring nature.

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