Odisha Home Dept Seeks Information On Re-Engagement Of Retired Officers

Bhubaneswar: The Home Department of Odisha is stated to have sought information regarding the appointment and re-engagement of retired officers in different government bodies.

According to official sources, detailed information in this regard has been sought from 13 departments and agencies. The authorities concerned have been asked to submit details in a prescribed format with information like the names of retired officers, designation, place of posting, remuneration, and their engagement period.

A letter in this regard has been sent by OSD-cum-Deputy Secretary to the state DGP, Chief Resident Commissioner at Odisha Bhawan in New Delhi, Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Director (Intelligence), Chairman-cum-Managing Director of Odisha State Police Housing and Welfare Corporation, Registrar (General) of the Orissa High Court, Director Odisha Judicial Academy and others.

While the exact reason behind the move is unclear, it is stated to be part of efforts to ensure greater transparency in the functioning of different government departments.

There is a general notion that retired officials are often re-engaged for the benefit of the party in power. The development assumes significance as the state is set to get a new government.

Notably, three retired officers who were posted in the chief minister’s office have already resigned after the defeat of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in the recent Assembly elections.

Retired IAS officers R Balakrishnan, and Suresh Chandra Mahapatra who served as chief advisor, Special Initiatives and chief advisor, Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) respectively have resigned from their posts. Principal secretary of Electronics and IT department Manoj Mishra has also resigned.