The abrupt transfer of Special Chief Secretary Ram Prakash Sisodia (IAS:1991:AP) has stirred debate within the corridors of the Andhra Pradesh Secretariat. His shift from the crucial Revenue Department—overseeing land administration, registration, and stamps—to the relatively low-profile Handlooms and Textiles Department has raised many eyebrows, especially given his close working relationship with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu.
Sisodia was widely regarded as one of the Chief Minister’s most trusted bureaucrats. He played a key role in formulating and implementing the government’s land reforms after the NDA came to power in the state. His sudden removal from the Revenue Department has, therefore, come as a surprise to many.
In a further setback, Sisodia has also been relieved of his additional role as Director-General of the AP Human Resource Development Institute.
According to reports, the state’s Intelligence Department recently submitted a report to the Chief Minister flagging certain irregularities within the departments under Sisodia’s charge. It is believed that the CM himself directed the Intelligence Department to probe these concerns after receiving preliminary information. During the course of the inquiry, audio clips reportedly emerged, adding a new layer of intrigue to the matter.
While the transfer has been issued under the guise of a routine administrative reshuffle, many within the state bureaucracy view it as anything but routine.
Also Read: AP: 8 IAS officers shifted, RP Sisodia to head Handloom, Textiles, I&C Departments
