I was disappointed with the way the presentation was made regarding the recent appointments made to various Commissions in Haryana on National News channel. As far as my own appointment is concerned, let me clarify that, I did not hold any office of profit when I took Oath as State Information Commissioner. My recommendation for appointment by the Statutory Committee under the RTI Act 2005 is not only transparent and not devoid of merit either, particularly in view of my administrative abilities, qualifications and experience from sub-division level to principal secretary level. More than thirty ‘outstanding’ reports in a career spanning more than 35 years, not only in my service career in Haryana but also in the Center, does bear it out. Also my academic achievements include a gold medal in LLB from Punjab University and distinction in LLM from Kurukshetra University besides M.Phil in English Language. I have been a position holder in other Competitive Examinations with wide experience in administration, governance, in commercial and non-commercial sectors. I am looked upon as an outstanding officer with Integrity in the State. Even my seniors, peers and juniors included would bear me out. So this question of incompetency and non-merit etc. is just a non-issue blown out of proportions and not based on facts.

It is not a sin to work with a Chief Minister. These are sanctioned IAS Cadre posts in the office of CM and to work on these is a matter of pride and prestige. I do agree that there is a general perception that bureaucrats are getting pliable day by day. However there are many others, who are professionally competent and have illustrious service record. Every CM has the right to appoint such officers in His office and seek correct unbiased advice, proper perspective of various issues, where decisions have to be taken.

More to come ….