Chennai: The Tamil Nadu government has appointed former IAS officer K. Phanindra Reddy (IAS:1990:TN) as the interim Chairperson of the Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TNRERA) after superseding the authority following the resignation of its chairperson and all four members.
The Housing and Urban Development Department issued the order on July 14, empowering the government to supersede the quasi-judicial body under the provisions of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA Act).
TNRERA Superseded Following Resignations
The decision comes days after TNRERA Chairperson Shiv Das Meena and members L. Subramanian, M. Krishnamoorthy, D. Jagannathan and Sukumar Chittibabu tendered their resignations.
According to the government order, the resignations have been accepted, leaving the authority unable to discharge its statutory responsibilities. Citing Section 82 of the RERA Act, 2016, the government said it was empowered to supersede the authority when it is unable to perform its functions.
Interim Panel to Run Authority for Six Months
Along with K. Phanindra Reddy, the government has appointed retired District Judge A. Nazir Ahamed and retired IAS officer Reeta Harish Thakkar as interim members of TNRERA.
The three-member panel will administer the authority for six months or until the TNRERA is reconstituted, whichever is earlier.
TNRERA is the statutory regulator responsible for overseeing the real estate sector in Tamil Nadu. It adjudicates disputes between homebuyers and promoters while ensuring compliance with the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act.
Fresh Selection Process to Begin
Under the RERA Act, the vacancies will now be referred to the Selection Committee, comprising the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court (or nominee), along with the Secretaries of the Housing and Law Departments.
The committee will constitute a search panel to identify eligible candidates. Based on its recommendations, two names for each vacant post will be forwarded to the state government for final appointment.
Who is K. Phanindra Reddy?
K. Phanindra Reddy is a 1990-batch IAS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre who retired from service on July 31, 2025, after a distinguished career spanning nearly 35 years.
An engineering graduate, he served in several key administrative positions across Tamil Nadu, earning a reputation for efficient governance and crisis management.
Some of his notable assignments include:
- Additional Chief Secretary, Transport Department (his final posting before retirement)
- Additional Chief Secretary, Home, Prohibition and Excise
- Principal Secretary, Municipal Administration and Water Supply
- Principal Secretary and Commissioner, Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE)
- District Collector, Perambalur
He also served as President of the Tamil Nadu IAS Officers’ Association.
Recognised for Crisis Management
Phanindra Reddy received widespread appreciation for his leadership during the 2015 Chennai floods, when he personally monitored rescue and relief operations on the ground and coordinated efforts involving the NDRF, Indian Navy, government agencies and volunteers.
Known for his administrative efficiency and low-profile working style, he has handled several important portfolios during his IAS career.
With his appointment as interim Chairperson, he will now oversee the functioning of TNRERA until the authority is formally reconstituted.
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