Bengaluru: In a key administrative development, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has appointed senior IAS officer V Anbukumar (IAS:2004:KN) as the new Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) for Karnataka. The official notification was issued by the ECI on July 7, 2025.
Anbukkumar Relieved from Housing Department Role
Following the ECI’s appointment, the Karnataka government issued an order on Monday, July 8, relieving Anbukumar of his current post as Secretary, Housing Department, Bengaluru, with immediate effect. This move facilitates a smooth transition for Anbukkumar to assume his new duties.
In his new role, he will also serve as the Ex-officio Secretary in the Department of Personnel & Administrative Reforms (Elections), tasked with overseeing electoral processes and ensuring coordination with the Election Commission.
Replacing Manoj Kumar Meena After Nearly Four Years
Anbukkumar replaces Manoj Kumar Meena (IAS:2003:KN), who had been serving as CEO since October 2021. Under Mr Meena’s leadership, Karnataka conducted multiple elections, including the 2023 Legislative Assembly elections and several by-polls.
Mr Meena has now been placed on a waitlist for a suitable posting, and further orders regarding his next assignment are expected shortly.
Profile of V Anbukumar
Mr Anbukumar is a seasoned bureaucrat from the 2004 Karnataka cadre. Over his career, he has held key administrative positions across urban governance, municipal development, and infrastructure planning in the state. His appointment as CEO comes at a crucial time, with preparations already underway for the 2026 Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) elections and upcoming panchayat polls.
