In a key administrative development, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has prematurely curtailed the tenure of Satyabrata Kumar (IRS C&IT: 2004) as Special Director in the Directorate of Enforcement (ED). Originally appointed until October 27, 2026, Kumar has now been repatriated to his parent cadre, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), over 17 months ahead of schedule.
Department of Revenue Initiated the Move
The decision follows a formal proposal by the Department of Revenue, which recommended ending Kumar’s central deputation early. Although the government has not disclosed specific reasons for the early repatriation, the move signals a significant realignment within the upper echelons of the ED at a politically sensitive time.
Key Transfers During Tenure
Kumar was appointed as Special Director in ED on December 20, 2022, while serving in the rank of Additional Director. During his tenure, he was posted in charge of the Western Region, before being transferred to the Eastern Region (Kolkata) just ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections—a move that drew attention in bureaucratic and political circles.
His early exit now creates a vacancy at the senior level within the Enforcement Directorate, even as the agency continues to handle several high-profile investigations across multiple regions.
Political Context and Strategic Timing
Though no official explanation has been offered, the timing of Kumar’s transfer and repatriation, particularly in the run-up to elections, has raised questions about operational independence and staffing decisions within the Enforcement Directorate. The agency has recently been under the spotlight for its involvement in politically sensitive cases, making leadership changes especially noteworthy.
Kumar’s departure may influence ongoing operations, and the appointment of his successor will be closely watched in both administrative and political circles.
