New Delhi / Panaji, May 19: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has relieved IAS officer Sanjit Rodrigues (IAS:2013:AGMUT) from his duties in Goa with immediate effect, directing him to report to his new posting in Ladakh without any further delay. A stern warning of disciplinary action has been issued in case of non-compliance.
Rodrigues, currently serving as CEO of the Imagine Panaji Smart City Mission and Secretary for Protocol and Civil Supplies in the Goa government, was transferred to Ladakh on September 12, 2024. However, he continued in his post in Goa as the state administration cited his key role in overseeing the completion of several Smart City projects as a reason for the delay in relieving him.
In its latest communication dated May 16, 2025, the MHA cited provisions of the 2016 transfer guidelines, which require that officers join their new place of posting within 15 days of the order. This is the second reminder issued to Rodrigues regarding his transfer.
The ministry has rejected all requests for deferral or cancellation of the transfer, stating that no further representations will be entertained. The directive has also been forwarded to the Chief Secretaries of both Goa and Ladakh, and a copy has been sent directly to Rodrigues.
Rodrigues was retained in Goa beyond the official deadline due to the impending March 31, 2025 deadline for Smart City project implementation. He had been brought in to expedite and complete works that had faced multiple setbacks under previous leadership.
However, the MHA has now clarified that administrative justifications will not override cadre management norms, underscoring the importance of timely postings and adherence to service rules.
Rodrigues must now report to Ladakh immediately or risk disciplinary proceedings under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules.
