Imphal: Rajesh Kumar, a 1988 batch IAS officer of Manipur cadre, completed his tenure as chief secretary of the state Friday.
The Manipur government appointed Dr Rajesh Kumar as new chief secretary, succeeding his predecessor J Suresh Babu, in August 2020. However, his retirement was extended two times for a period of six months each and held the post of chief secretary of Manipur till June 31, 2023.
His actual retirement was due on June 30, 2022.
Earlier, the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee strongly condemned the state government over re-extending the service of Rajesh Kumar, stating that it would demoralise many competent government officials. Despite having competent and deserving officials and continuously extending the period of Chief Secretary, Rajesh, again and again, would demotivate many officials. This kind of decision directly or indirectly promoted corruption in the state, senior spokesperson of MPCC, Bhupenda Ningomba said.
The Manipur government, however, appointed Dr Vineet Joshi, a 1992 batch IAS officer, as the new chief secretary of the state on May 8, last month to replace Dr Rajesh Kumar.
The replacement came at a time when the ethnic violence between Kukis and Meeteis rocked the state that started on May 3, 2023.
Joshi who was on central deputation was serving as Additional Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, Government of India.
Rajesh calls on Manipur Governor
Manipur chief secretary Rajesh Kumar, IAS, called on Governor Anusuiya Uikey at Raj Bhavan, here on Friday.
The Governor applauded the former Chief Secretary of Manipur for his outstanding and remarkable service and expressed gratitude for his efforts in transforming the state. Miss Anusuiya Uikey wished Rajesh Kumar the most rewarding years of life after retirement.
