Lucknow — The administrative circles of Uttar Pradesh are abuzz with speculation of a major bureaucratic reshuffle. With Chief Secretary Shashi Prakash Goyal currently on leave, Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) Deepak Kumar has been given charge of all departments as an interim arrangement. However, sources suggest this is only temporary, and the state may soon witness significant changes in top-level postings.
Transfer List in the Works
Reports indicate that several Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, District Magistrates, and Divisional Commissioners are likely to be transferred. The move comes ahead of the upcoming Ground Breaking Ceremony, Panchayat elections, and Assembly by-polls, with the government looking to reassign officials in key departments and districts. Some top officers at Lok Bhavan could be shifted, while others may be sidelined.
Internal Tensions Among Officials
Meanwhile, internal rivalries and personal preferences among senior officers have also fueled speculation.
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Role of Sanjay Prasad: As the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Sanjay Prasad’s influence is expected to be key. Sources claim his recommendations may determine who takes charge of the crucial Home Department.
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Energy Department Rift: A clash between UP Power Corporation Chairman Ashish Goyal and Energy Minister A.K. Sharma may result in Ashish Goyal being moved to another department.
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Senior Officers Seeking Change: Veteran IAS officers like Alok Kumar (posted in the same department for a long time) and M. Devaraj (Principal Secretary, GST) are reportedly seeking new assignments.
The Bold Image of S.P. Goyal
Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal is widely regarded as a fearless and straightforward officer who does not bow to pressure. In 2024, he notably returned a file sent by Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, which proposed the transfer of 750 assistant engineers — a move Goyal deemed irrational. Similarly, he declined approval on a proposal granting Samsung India subsidies beyond the prescribed limit, reinforcing his image as an officer who prioritizes rules over political convenience.
What’s Next?
With Goyal on leave and murmurs of large-scale transfers gaining momentum, Uttar Pradesh’s bureaucracy could soon see a major realignment. Observers believe the shake-up will play a pivotal role in shaping administrative control ahead of upcoming political events.
