Ernakulam: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has annulled the Kerala government’s appointment of 1998 batch senior IAS officer Dr B Ashok, Principal Secretary of the Agriculture Department, as Chairman of the State Local Self-Government (LSG) Reforms Commission.
The verdict was delivered by the Ernakulam Bench of CAT, comprising Justice Sunil Thomas and V Rama Mathew, in response to a petition filed by Dr Ashok himself.
Appointment Made Without Officer’s Consent, Rules Tribunal
In his petition, Dr Ashok had argued that the January 9 government order transferring him to the new post was issued without his consent, violating the All India Services (Cadre) Rules, 1954. The rules mandate that an officer’s consent is essential before being moved from a cadre post to a deputation or non-cadre assignment.
The tribunal accepted this position, observing that the State Government acted in contravention of both cadre rules and deputation norms applicable to IAS officers.
Ashok to Continue as Principal Secretary and Agricultural Production Commissioner
With the cancellation of the transfer order, Dr Ashok will now continue serving as Principal Secretary of the Agriculture Department and also hold charge as Agricultural Production Commissioner.
The tribunal’s ruling underscores the importance of following due administrative procedures and respecting the service rights of officers governed by national cadre rules.
