MHA Orders IAS Officer Nitish Rajora to Report to Ladakh by September 30, Warns of Disciplinary Action
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a strict directive to IAS officer Nitish Rajora (AGMUT:2009), ordering him to assume charge of his new posting in Ladakh by September 30, 2025. The Ministry warned that any failure to comply would attract disciplinary action, including stoppage of salary, adverse remarks, and restrictions on future promotions or deputations.
Background of the Transfer
Rajora, presently serving as Director of Information, Jammu and Kashmir, was transferred to Ladakh on May 16, 2025 under MHA’s orders. However, despite the directive, he continued in his existing role. The latest order makes clear that he has been deemed “Stand Relieved” from the Jammu and Kashmir government as of September 30, in line with the 2016 Guidelines for Transfer/Posting of IAS/IPS Officers of AGMUT Cadre, which mandate that officers must be relieved within 15 days of a transfer order.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
The Ministry’s communication, issued by Rakesh Kumar Singh, Under Secretary, MHA, specifies that Rajora risks facing:
Immediate stoppage of salary
Issuance of a displeasure note
Debarment from promotion
Bar on Central deputation
Formal disciplinary proceedings
The order also dismissed any request for cancellation or suspension of his transfer, stating that “no further representations will be entertained.”
Directions to State Authorities
To ensure compliance, the Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir has been directed not to process Rajora’s salary beyond September 30, while the Chief Secretary of Ladakh has been asked to confirm his assumption of charge at the earliest.
Significance
The MHA’s decisive action underscores the government’s zero-tolerance policy on delays or defiance of transfer orders, reinforcing the principles of accountability and discipline in the Indian Administrative Service. Officials noted that this move is intended to serve as a precedent for future cases where officers delay compliance with cadre postings.
