What Prompted the Vijayan Government to Investigate Suspended IAS Officer Prasanth?
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Synopsis
The investigation into IAS officer N. Prasanth raises questions about procedural fairness and the integrity of the bureaucratic system. With a significant social media following, Prasanth's case has sparked widespread interest and debate over transparency and accountability in government actions.
Key Takeaways
- Pinarayi Vijayan government orders an investigation into IAS officer N. Prasanth.
- The investigation will be conducted by Rajan Koborgade.
- Prasanth's suspension has been extended multiple times.
- Allegations against him include missing documents and irregularities.
- Concerns raised about the integrity of the investigation.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 24 (NationPress) The Left government, led by Pinarayi Vijayan, has initiated an investigation involving suspended IAS officer N. Prasanth. This inquiry will be overseen by Additional Chief Secretary Rajan Koborgade, who has a three-month deadline to complete the investigation.
The decision for an inquiry follows Prasanth's response to his suspension notice, which was deemed inadequate.
This 2007-batch IAS officer faced suspension in November of the previous year after he made grave allegations against senior bureaucrats. These include Additional Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak (1991-batch), IAS officer K. Gopalakrishnan (2013-batch), and the recently retired Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan.
Typically, when an IAS officer is suspended, an investigation is expected to occur within six months, with a report to follow. However, in Prasanth’s case, this process has been significantly delayed, with the probe announced after nine months, during which his suspension was extended three times.
Concerns about the integrity of the investigation have arisen due to the involvement of Jayathilak and Kobrogade, both of whom are linked to Prasanth’s allegations. While serving as the Kozhikode District Collector, Prasanth garnered a substantial following on social media for his commendable work.
The controversy surrounding his suspension revolves around an inquiry report allegedly authored by Jayathilak, which claimed that Prasanth was accountable for missing documents related to the Unnathi project, irregularities in his attendance, and breaches of service conduct, including inappropriate social media posts.
Prasanth has consistently maintained that the accusations against him are based on dubious digital evidence and lack both procedural and legal validity.
He has also criticized Jayathilak and Gopalakrishnan regarding his suspension.
Additionally, his regular public statements on social media, including details of a private meeting with former Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan, have further annoyed higher authorities.
Point of View
The investigation into N. Prasanth serves as a critical reminder of the delicate balance between authority and transparency. The intricacies of this case highlight the need for due process and the importance of maintaining public trust in government systems.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is N. Prasanth?
N. Prasanth is a 2007-batch IAS officer who was suspended in November after making serious allegations against senior bureaucrats.
Why was the probe ordered?
The probe was ordered due to an unsatisfactory response from Prasanth regarding his suspension notice.
Who is conducting the investigation?
The investigation is being conducted by Additional Chief Secretary Rajan Koborgade.
What were the allegations against Prasanth?
Prasanth faced allegations of missing documents related to the Unnathi project and irregularities in his attendance records.
What is the public reaction to this case?
Public reaction is mixed, with many supporting Prasanth due to his previous reputation and social media presence.
