Lucknow/Moradabad: A fresh round of speculation has begun in Uttar Pradesh’s bureaucratic corridors over the future of senior IAS officer Aunjaneya Kumar Singh, known for his no-nonsense administrative style and close proximity to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Mr Singh, a 2005 batch IAS officer of the Sikkim cadre, has completed his extended deputation in Uttar Pradesh on August 14, and in the absence of further orders from the Centre, has handed over charge to Moradabad DM Anuj Singh, an IAS officer of 2013 batch, and proceeded on long leave.
Key Role in Action Against Azam Khan
Mr Singh came into the political spotlight during his tenure as District Magistrate of Rampur, where he took decisive action against senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan. His assertive approach earned him praise from the ruling BJP and placed him on the list of trusted bureaucrats in CM Yogi’s governance model.
Since then, Mr Singh’s deputation in Uttar Pradesh has been repeatedly extended, despite opposition pressure and frequent demands from SP leaders for his removal, especially before elections. His tenure as Divisional Commissioner of Moradabad began in March 2021.
Deputation Ends, Uncertainty Grows
While the Uttar Pradesh government has reportedly requested the central government to extend IAS Singh’s deputation for another year, no official order has been issued so far. With five days having passed since the end of his tenure on August 14, insiders now believe that Singh may be returning to his parent cadre in Sikkim.
This development comes as a surprise to many, as it was widely anticipated that Singh’s deputation would be extended once again, especially given his longstanding role in managing politically sensitive districts.
Leaves Moradabad Charge, Awaits Decision
In the interim, IAS Singh has formally handed over charge to DM Anuj Singh. He has also applied for a long leave, fueling further speculation about a possible return to Sikkim unless a fresh order is issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
Sources say that while the UP government is keen to retain him, the lack of prompt approval from the Centre may delay or even deny the extension.
Read also: 4 IAS Officers from 2016 Batch Emerge as Frontrunners for District Magistrate Posts in Uttar Pradesh – Know More About Them
Political Undertones of the Bureaucratic Move
IAS Singh’s administrative track record—particularly his role in actions against SP leaders—has frequently placed him at the center of political controversy. His continued presence in Moradabad division was often criticized by opposition parties, particularly the SP, which has in the past officially petitioned for his transfer.
With his future in Uttar Pradesh now uncertain, political watchers are keenly observing whether the central government bows to the UP government’s request or allows Mr Singh’s return to his parent cadre.
