Padma Jaiswal, an AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram-Union Territories) cadre officer from the 2003 batch, was removed from her position by the central government due to allegations of corruption. She served as a Special Secretary in the Delhi government’s Department of Administrative Reforms. She has been ousted after a protracted disciplinary procedure.
According to official sources, the directive was announced earlier this week after the President of India gave her final approval on the suggestion of the Prime Minister’s Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The DoPT bases such moves on the MHA’s (Ministry of Home Affairs) suggestions about AGMUT cadre officials.
“I am not aware of any such development or any dismissal order being passed,” she claimed while talking to The Indian Express. The case is founded on accusations that date back to 2007-08, when Jaiswal was the Deputy Commissioner of Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district. In February 2008, locals filed a complaint in relation to misusing her office and embezzling government funds after which she was suspended in April of next year. However, the suspension was lifted in October 2010.
The MHA started the disciplinary action in accordance with Rule 8 of the All-India Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules. Charge memoranda were provided to Jaiswal in 2009 and 2010. After consulting with the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and the Central Vigilance Commission as the former suggested her ouster.
The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) dismissed the MHA-initiated proceedings previously, ruling that the MHA had no authority over AGMUT cadre personnel. The Delhi High Court heard an appeal to the CAT order from the Union government and decided in favour of the centre on 1st April of this year.
The court noted that the CAT had “erred” in its conclusion and reinstated the suspended disciplinary procedures. The MHA completed the procedure and suggested the major penalty of removal after the HC’s decision. Jaiswal has held important posts in Arunachal Pradesh, Delhi, Goa and Puducherry over her more than 20-year career.
Notably, IAS officers are rarely subjected to severe punishments like dismissal or mandatory retirement. Officials are confronted with disciplinary actions by their cadre governing authority. Furthermore, the courts decide corruption cases pursuant to charge sheets submitted by investigating agencies.
