New Delhi: In a key administrative move, the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Monday, February 9, 2026, approved the appointment of IAS officer Ashok Kumar (IAS:2006:AGMUT) as the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi.
Mr Kumar, currently serving as Secretary in the General Administration Department (GAD), will take over from the incumbent R Alice Vaz (IAS:2005:AGMUT), who was transferred from the post on January 4, 2026.
The Delhi government had forwarded a panel of three names for the position, and the Commission approved Ashok Kumar’s appointment. The ECI has issued a formal notification, requesting that it be republished in the NCT of Delhi Gazette. Kumar has been directed to assume charge immediately and submit a compliance report within a week.
Profile of Ashok Kumar
- Batch & Cadre: IAS 2006, AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territories)
- Date of Birth: March 25, 1981
- Domicile: Rajasthan
- Education: B.A. in Arts, P.G. in Geography, M.Phil. in Political Geography (Jawaharlal Nehru University, JNU)
Mr Kumar has a rich administrative background, with extensive experience in both state and central postings.
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Key Postings and Experience
Current Role (Feb 2026): CEO, NCT of Delhi
Central Deputation (March 2022 – 2026):
- Director, Ministry of Finance
- Joint Secretary, Ministry of Defence
- Executive Director, National Mission for Clean Ganga
State/UT Assignments: Served in Puducherry and other regions within the AGMUT cadre
Previous Role before Central Deputation: Secretary, School Education Department
IAS Kumar’s experience across administrative roles in both the central government and Union Territories is expected to support efficient electoral management and implementation of reforms in Delhi.
Immediate Responsibilities
Upon assuming charge, Ashok Kumar will be responsible for overseeing the electoral process in Delhi, including voter registration, election preparedness, and coordination with political stakeholders. His appointment comes at a crucial time as Delhi prepares for upcoming elections, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and effective governance.
Read also: Political Storm Erupts in Punjab Over Suspension of IAS Officers; BJP Urges Central Intervention
