The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, Aug 31 2024 : In a significant bureaucratic reshuffle, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday appointed Dharmendra, a 1989-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the AGMUT cadre, as the new chief secretary of Delhi. Dharmendra, who has been serving as the chief secretary of Arunachal Pradesh since April 2022, succeeds Naresh Kumar, a 1987-batch IAS officer, whose tenure as Delhi’s chief secretary ends on August 31 after being extended twice by the Centre. The appointment comes amid speculation and discussions within bureaucratic circles, particularly following a recent change at the helm of the MHA earlier this month. According to sources, this move is expected to trigger a broader reshuffle within the AGMUT cadre, affecting the posting of IAS, IPS, and DANICS officers not only in Delhi but also across Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, and other locations within the cadre’s jurisdiction in the coming days.
Naresh Kumar’s tenure as Delhi chief secretary, which began in April 2022, has been marked by frequent clashes with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. His two-year stint saw numerous confrontations between the state administration and the central government, culminating in his removal from the post. Kumar’s departure clears the way for Dharmendra, who is recognized for his extensive experience and diverse postings within the capital and other regions. Dharmendra’s appointment is particularly significant given the evolving administrative dynamics in Delhi. The role of the chief secretary has gained increased importance following the enactment of the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act, 2023. Under this law, the chief secretary is one of the three members of the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA), alongside the Delhi chief minister and the principal secretary (home). This authority oversees the transfer, posting, and vigilance matters of civil servants in Delhi, making the chief secretary’s role pivotal in the city’s administration.
The new appointment is also expected to lead to further changes within the Delhi government and affiliated bodies such as the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). Sources indicate that Dharmendra was selected from a panel of three senior IAS officers proposed by former Union home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla before his retirement earlier this month. Dharmendra, a civil engineer by training, brings with him a wealth of experience from various roles in the capital and beyond. His previous postings in Delhi include divisional commissioner-cum-revenue secretary, NDMC chairperson, and deputy commissioner in North West and East Delhi. Additionally, he has held key positions in the industries, environment, and irrigation and flood control departments of the Delhi government. Beyond his service in Delhi, Dharmendra has also had a five-year stint as joint secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, where he played a crucial role in urban development. His career also includes roles as additional secretary in the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, development commissioner in Daman Diu/Dadra Nagar Haveli, and resident commissioner in Aizawl, among others.
As Dharmendra assumes the role of Delhi’s chief secretary, his extensive experience and familiarity with the capital’s administration are expected to guide him in navigating the complex relationship between the central and state governments, ensuring smooth governance in the national capital.
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