As the extended term of the incumbent Chief of the Enforcement Directorate, Sanjay Kumar Mishra (IRS-IT:1984), approaches its end on September 15, there is a flurry of speculation and conjecture within the corridors of power.
Sources indicate that the Central government, in accordance with the Supreme Court’s timeline, is in the final stages of selecting Mishra’s successor. It is reported that two names have been submitted for an Intelligence Bureau (IB) report and other necessary clearances. Subsequently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to make the ultimate decision later this week. The two potential candidates in consideration are Pravin Kumar (IRS-IT:1987), a Member of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), and Seemanchala Dash (IRS-IT:1988), formerly the Principal Special Director in the Enforcement Directorate and Adviser to the Enforcement Directorate at the IMF.
Several other names are circulating as possible contenders, including Pankaj Kumar Mishra (IRS IT: 1989) and Rashmi Shukla (IPS:1988:MH), with the latter being considered a dark horse with strong potential. According to another set of sources, Rahul Naveen (IRS-IT:1993), the Special Director in the Enforcement Directorate, was also among the shortlisted candidates.
In the current scenario, Pravin Kumar appears to be the frontrunner, although the Modi government has a history of surprising many by selecting dark horse candidates for such positions.
Also Read: Supreme Court allows ED Director to continue till Sept 15
