The medical leave taken by K K Pathak (IAS:1990:BH), the Additional Chief Secretary of the Education Department, has become the focal point of political and bureaucratic discussions in the state. While various speculations circulate among political and bureaucratic circles, only Chief Minister Nitish Kumar possesses the actual details. Mr. Pathak, who is on medical leave from January 8 to January 16, 2024, as per the order issued by the General Administration Department, is currently on earned leave. According to secretariat sources, Pathak has not undergone any official transfer. Unless the government issues a transfer order by January 16, he is expected to resume his duties in the Education Department on January 17.
Pathak’s proactive approach in transforming the Education Department and holding every stakeholder accountable has stirred the traditional education structure in the state, impacting both the political class and the education department. The news of his leave spread rapidly, particularly with the emergence of a viral letter on social media, intensifying speculations about his potential departure.
Speculation for the first time gained traction considering the significant Education Department program scheduled for January 13. CM Nitish Kumar is slated to issue appointment letters to 25 thousand successful candidates in the second phase of teacher recruitment at Patna Gandhi Maidan, with ministers in-charge distributing joining letters to other candidates. The assumption is that Pathak’s relinquishment of the ACS post is a formal procedure, enabling the government to delegate decision-making authority to someone else for the role. Consequently, Vaidyanath Yadav, a 2007 batch IAS officer, has been assigned the charge of Secretary, Education Department.
Notably, the changes witnessed in schools, colleges, and universities during Pathak’s tenure have been profound, creating a transformative impact across educational institutions. While individuals critical of Pathak’s approach express satisfaction at the prospect of his departure, it is important to note that these sentiments are not officially confirmed.
Understanding the dynamics, it is known that officers like K K Pathak are assigned to specific departments with special assignments by top political figures. It would be unwise to assume that introducing such a level of accountability in his department without displeasing his minister did not have Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s consent.
Pathak assumed the role of ACS in the Education Department on June 8, 2023, and has tirelessly worked without taking any leave since then. Despite the transformative changes he brought during his tenure, certain factions now wish for his transfer out of the department.
The stated reason for his leave being health concerns, the closeness to the crucial Education Department event scheduled for January 13 has raised suspicions in certain quarters. Some speculate a possible link to Pathak’s opponents, who are attentively awaiting an opportune moment.
