Dharmendra appointed Delhi Chief Secretary ahead of Assembly poll
New Delhi, August 31
The Central Government on Saturday appointed senior IAS officer Dharmendra as the new Chief Secretary of the Delhi Government. Dharmendra, a 1989-batch officer of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre, takes over charge from Naresh Kumar, a 1987-batch officer whose tenure concludes today after two extensions.
Dharmendra served as the Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh, a position he held since April 2022. Known for his extensive experience within the AGMUT cadre, Dharmendra’s appointment assumes significance just months before the Delhi Assembly elections scheduled for February 2024.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed his transfer in an order issued on Saturday, stating, “With the approval of the competent authority, Dharmendra, IAS (AGMUT 1989), is hereby transferred from Arunachal Pradesh to Delhi and posted as Chief Secretary, GNCTD, with effect from 01.09.2024 or the date of joining, whichever is later.”
Naresh Kumar, who reached the age of superannuation last November, had his tenure extended twice amid disputes with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). During his stint as Chief Secretary, Kumar was often at odds with the AAP government, facing fierce criticism and allegations from the party.
Dharmendra’s new role requires him to navigate the complex political landscape of Delhi, acting as a key intermediary between the AAP government and the Lt Governor’s Office. His previous experience in the National Capital includes roles as Secretary in the Revenue, Irrigation and Flood Control, and Industries Departments, as well as Chairman of the New Delhi Municipal Council.
