New Delhi: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has prematurely ended the tenure of Rameshwar Prasad Gupta (Retd IAS: 1987: GJ), Chairman of the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). Gupta, who was set to retire on June 14, 2025, has been relieved of his duties effective immediately – just 34 days before the official end of his term.
The late-night termination order was issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), catching many in power and administrative circles off guard. With no official explanation provided, the abrupt dismissal has triggered intense speculation within bureaucratic and energy sector corridors, particularly given Gupta’s influential Gujarat cadre background, which currently holds significant sway in the central government.
Mr Gupta’s sudden removal is believed to be linked to recent controversies surrounding SECI’s tendering processes. Notably, during his leadership, SECI had barred Reliance Power from participating in renewable energy project bids, a decision that was later reversed in December following a court directive. Additionally, the organisation came under the scanner for a solar deal involving Azure Power, although SECI denied any irregularities.
Appointed in June 2023, Mr Gupta helmed SECI during a critical period when the corporation was granted “Navratna” status by the government in August 2024. The abrupt termination has sparked speculation within bureaucratic and energy sector circles, with insiders suggesting that the move may be aimed at enforcing accountability. The possibility of further disciplinary measures has not been ruled out.
About SECI
Solar Energy Corporation of India Ltd. is a public sector undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India. It was established in 2011 to facilitate the implementation of the National Solar Mission (NSM) and promote the development of renewable energy sources, particularly solar energy.
