A sudden alteration in the appointment of a senior IAS officer by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has created ripples in bureaucratic circles, leading to an unexpected ad hoc arrangement within a Union Ministry.
Initially slated to assume charge as a Union Secretary, the officer was instead reassigned to a different role within the same ministry – while retaining the rank of Secretary to the Government of India.
Who Really Calls the Shots – ACC or the Government?
While bureaucratic reshuffles aren’t uncommon, sources indicate this particular change may reflect discretionary decision-making rather than a standard ACC directive.
How Senior IAS Appointments Typically Work
The ACC plays a central role in appointing senior IAS officers to key central government positions. The standard process involves:
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Vacancy Notification: The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) identifies upcoming or existing vacancies for senior posts (Secretary, Additional Secretary etc.)
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Empanelment Criteria:
Batch seniority
Annual Performance Assessment Reports (APARs)
Integrity verification
Demonstrated capability for higher responsibilities
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Screening Process:
A committee of senior bureaucrats, coordinated by DoPT, evaluates officers against these parameters. -
Shortlisting Considerations:
Relevant domain expertise
Track record in previous postings
Need for regional representation
Vigilance clearance status
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Final Approval:
The Administrative Ministry/DoPT submits recommendations to the ACC – chaired by the Prime Minister with the Home Minister as member – for final decision.
This recent deviation from standard procedure has raised questions about whether established protocols were followed, adding fuel to ongoing discussions about transparency in top-level bureaucratic appointments.
The development is being closely watched as it may signal shifting dynamics in how key government positions are filled.
