Replaces Prashant Kumar Singh; Appointment Comes During Political Uncertainty in Violence-Hit State
In a major administrative development, the Central Government has appointed IAS officer Puneet Kumar Goel (1991 batch, AGMUT cadre) as the new Chief Secretary of Manipur. The appointment, approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), was officially notified on July 15.
He takes over from Prashant Kumar Singh (1993 batch, Manipur cadre), who has now been posted as Secretary, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST).
Appointed on Inter-Cadre Deputation
Goel’s posting comes via inter-cadre deputation from the AGMUT cadre to Manipur, with his central deputation curtailed to facilitate the move. As per the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), his tenure will continue until August 31, 2025, aligning with his superannuation date.
This reshuffle comes at a critical juncture, as Manipur remains under President’s Rule, imposed in early 2025 following months of ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities, and the resignation of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in February 2025.
A Veteran Bureaucrat with Broad Administrative Experience
Puneet Kumar Goel is a seasoned IAS officer with more than three decades of experience across various sectors at both the state and central levels. His past roles include:
Chief Secretary of Goa (Feb 2022 – Oct 2024)
Secretary, National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
CEO, Delhi Jal Board
Commissioner, South Delhi Municipal Corporation
Transport Commissioner, Government of Delhi
Senior roles in urban development, welfare of SC/ST/OBCs, and power sectors at the central level
His deep administrative background is expected to be crucial in managing Manipur’s fragile law-and-order situation and driving relief, rehabilitation, and governance reforms under President’s Rule.
Controversy During Goa Tenure
Goel’s tenure as Goa’s Chief Secretary ended with some controversy. Allegations were raised regarding a zone change in a property he purchased, prompting a petition in the Bombay High Court. In response, Goel filed an affidavit denying any misconduct, clarifying that the file was among over 700 signed in March 2024.
No official findings were made against him, and the issue had no bearing on his service record or central deputation.
Political Landscape and Administrative Outlook
Manipur’s political scenario remains tense. Ten NDA legislators recently wrote to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, seeking restoration of an elected government, claiming support from 44 MLAs, including those from BJP, NPP, and an Independent.
Goel will now serve under Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, a former Union Home Secretary, who assumed office in December 2024.
As Chief Secretary, Puneet Kumar Goel is expected to focus on:
Restoring administrative normalcy
Strengthening law and order
Overseeing relief and rehabilitation operations
Laying the groundwork for possible assembly elections
His appointment is seen as a strategic move to stabilize governance in a state grappling with deep social unrest and political vacuum.
