📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Sayant Mahato
Politics
Ministerial Row Sparks Removal of RAS Officer and Transfer of 21 Officers During Model Code
✍️ Bhaskar English
🗓 19 Aug 2026, 08:33 PM
👁 2
A dispute involving a state minister led to the dismissal of a Rashtriya Administrative Service officer, with 21 other RAS officers transferred as the model code of conduct came into force.
A ministerial disagreement in an Indian state resulted in the removal of a Rashtriya Administrative Service (RAS) officer. The controversy, which surfaced shortly before the enforcement of the model code of conduct for elections, prompted the state administration to act swiftly.
In response, the government transferred a total of 21 RAS officers to different postings. Officials said the moves were intended to maintain administrative neutrality and prevent any undue influence during the election period.
The department overseeing the transfers did not disclose the names of the officers or the specific ministries involved, citing standard procedural norms. However, sources indicated that the removed officer had been directly linked to the ministerial dispute.
Election watchdogs have observed the timing of the transfers, noting that such actions are common when the model code of conduct is in force to ensure a level playing field. The state government affirmed that all decisions complied with legal and procedural requirements.
The incident underscores the delicate balance between political leadership and the civil service, especially during the sensitive pre‑election phase.
In response, the government transferred a total of 21 RAS officers to different postings. Officials said the moves were intended to maintain administrative neutrality and prevent any undue influence during the election period.
The department overseeing the transfers did not disclose the names of the officers or the specific ministries involved, citing standard procedural norms. However, sources indicated that the removed officer had been directly linked to the ministerial dispute.
Election watchdogs have observed the timing of the transfers, noting that such actions are common when the model code of conduct is in force to ensure a level playing field. The state government affirmed that all decisions complied with legal and procedural requirements.
The incident underscores the delicate balance between political leadership and the civil service, especially during the sensitive pre‑election phase.