Is Kerala IAS Officer’s Petition Putting New TDB Chief Jayakumar in Trouble?
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Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, IAS officer Dr. B. Ashok's petition against TDB president K. Jayakumar has sparked a legal confrontation that could reshape the future of his presidency. As the court date approaches, questions arise about the legitimacy of his appointment and the repercussions it may have.
Key Takeaways
- Legal Challenge: Dr. B. Ashok's petition raises serious questions about K. Jayakumar's eligibility.
- Court Summons: Jayakumar and government officials must appear in court.
- Potential Resignation: A negative ruling could force Jayakumar to step down.
- Administrative Issues: Jayakumar's management at Sabarimala faces significant challenges.
- Governance Implications: The case may set a precedent for future appointments in religious institutions.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 5 (NationPress) A legal challenge brought forth by senior IAS officer Dr B. Ashok seeking the disqualification of Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president K. Jayakumar has ignited a significant legal and administrative turmoil for the recently appointed head.
The Principal District Court in Thiruvananthapuram has accepted the petition and has summoned Jayakumar along with high-ranking government officials to appear on January 15, 2026, marking a pivotal shift in an already heated appointment.
The petition contends that Jayakumar, who is still serving as the Director of the Institute of Management in Government (IMG), a government entity, is receiving a government salary and is thus legally disqualified from holding the TDB president position under Section 7(iii) of the Travancore-Cochin Hindu Religious Institutions Act.
This statute explicitly forbids individuals on government salaries from being members or presidents of the Devaswom Board.
If the court confirms this argument, Jayakumar would have no choice but to resign. Dr Ashok’s petition provides proof that Jayakumar was a government employee during his appointment, oath-taking, and beyond, rendering his assumption of office invalid.
It also disputes the notion that the Devaswom Board chairmanship could be viewed as an additional government position.
In response, Jayakumar has stated his intention to resign from IMG shortly, emphasizing its autonomous nature and asserting he is not receiving any salary from the Devaswom Board.
This controversy arises amid challenges within Jayakumar’s administration at Sabarimala.
His announcement that 'Sadya' would recommence promptly after he took office on November 14 has yet to materialize.
With unsanitary toilets, incomplete preparations, and obvious coordination issues, neither government departments nor Devaswom staff seem to be following his orders.
Jayakumar has been favored by successive state administrations, and shortly after retiring as Chief Secretary in 2012, he became the founding Vice Chancellor of Malayalam University.
As legal and administrative pressures mount, the upcoming court ruling is poised to influence Jayakumar’s future and reveal whether statutory regulations were overlooked during his appointment.
Point of View
This unfolding legal dispute highlights serious questions about governance and adherence to statutory norms within religious institutions. The outcome will not only impact K. Jayakumar's career but will also serve as a precedent for future appointments within the Travancore Devaswom Board.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis of Dr. B. Ashok's petition?
Dr. B. Ashok's petition argues that K. Jayakumar, as a government employee drawing a salary, is prohibited from serving as TDB president under Section 7(iii) of the Travancore-Cochin Hindu Religious Institutions Act.
What are the potential consequences for Jayakumar if the court rules against him?
If the court supports the petition, Jayakumar may be forced to resign from his position as TDB president.
When is the court hearing scheduled?
The court hearing is scheduled for January 15, 2026.
What challenges is Jayakumar facing in his administration?
Jayakumar's administration is facing issues such as unsanitary facilities, incomplete preparations, and poor coordination among staff.
How has Jayakumar responded to the allegations?
Jayakumar has stated that he intends to resign from IMG and emphasizes that he is not drawing a salary from the Devaswom Board.
