Ranchi: Discontent is brewing in the Jharkhand cabinet over the transfer and posting of officials by Chief Minister Shibu Soren, with many ministers complaining they were not consulted on the issue.

In the last ten days, Soren transferred 13 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers, 20 Sub Divisional Officers (SDOs) and 63 Block Development Officers (BDOs). In many districts, the Deputy Commissioners (DC) were appointed without taking the opinion of the ministers.

According to sources, some ministers have expressed resentment over the episode. Three independent legislators who are ministers in Soren cabinet did not attend the foundation day of the state Nov 15.

Former Chief Minister and chairman of the state United Progressive Alliance steering committee Madhu Koda, who was to be the chief guest, also skipped the function.

"It is the duty of the chief minister to take the allies into confidence. He should give serious thought to the issue so that better coordination could be established among the different departments", said Water Resources Minister Kamlesh Singh.

Another minister told IANS: "Soren hardly cares for the ministers. The present government has become 'Soren rule' instead of UPA rule. This is not good for the health of the UPA in the state".

The reaction from the ministers has led Soren, who intended to complete the transfer and posting before the process for the coming general elections gets underway, to defer carrying out a reshuffle of Indian Police Service (IPS) officials.

According to senior government officials, from December the officials are likely to be involved in the poll process for the coming general elections, which include updating the list of voters and other things.

The state government will find it difficult to effect transfer and postings of desired officers in various districts once the process commences.

 

Source : IANS