Neerabh Kumar Prasad, a senior IAS officer who joined in 1987, has been named the new Chief Secretary, taking over from Dr. KS Jawahar Reddy. Neerabh began his responsibilities at the secretariat soon after his appointment last Friday.
Considering his retirement is scheduled for June 30, there is anticipation of an extension for him, likely for a minimum of six months. While Chandrababu Naidu is slated to be sworn in as the Chief Minister on June 12, the complete cabinet swearing-in might occur a few weeks later.
As Naidu is likely to undertake a complete revamping of the administration, he would prefer to retain Neerabh for an extended period, given Neerabh’s familiarity with the current system and the need for continuity during this transition phase. “Centre has been granting extension for All India Service officers working in the states for six months upon request by the state govt.”
Chandrababu Naidu, the chief minister-in-waiting known for his strategic acumen and foresight, carefully chose Neerabh as the ideal candidate to spearhead the administration, acknowledging his well-established reputation as an incorruptible and principled officer.
Despite Neerabh’s seniority among the rank of chief secretary IAS officers, the previous YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government notably marginalized him, overlooking his vast experience and capabilities.
He was ousted from his significant role as chief commissioner of land administration (CCLA) and transferred to the less influential position of special chief secretary of the Forests and Environment Department. Notably, Neerabh is a member of the 1987 batch, whereas Jawahar Reddy hails from the 1990 batch, indicating that Neerabh is more senior than Jawahar Reddy.
Jawahar Reddy’s exit occurred soon after his recent discussion with Chandrababu Naidu. Notably, he was reassigned without a new position being designated. The TDP had appealed multiple times to the Election Commission of India (ECI) to replace Jawahar Reddy as the chief secretary before the state elections.
The party had strong suspicions regarding Jawahar Reddy’s close ties with YS Jagan Mohan Reddy and his efforts to support the YSRCP during the elections. TDP claimed that Jawahar Reddy played a significant part in the distribution of welfare pensions via the DBT method, leading to difficulties for senior citizens for three months, and possibly to shift blame onto the TDP.
