Haryana Government Scrambles for Chief Secretary Replacement
The Haryana government faces an administrative challenge. Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi will remain absent from office for at least one month. He recently underwent major heart surgery and requires extended medical leave.
Search for Temporary Leadership
State officials now work to find a suitable replacement. They aim to maintain smooth administration during this critical period. The government hopes to make a decision within the next one or two days.
This situation creates particular difficulties for the finance and planning department. Rastogi held direct charge of this crucial portfolio. His absence coincides with the final stages of budget preparation for the upcoming financial year.
Three Senior Officers Under Consideration
Government sources reveal three senior IAS officers from the 1990 batch as potential candidates. The administration prefers minimal bureaucratic disruption while filling this vital position.
Dr. Sumita Misra Singh emerges as the strongest contender. She currently serves as Financial Commissioner Revenue and oversees the home department. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini personally manages the finance department as minister-in-charge.
Misra's role as FCR connects directly to the chief secretary's office. She could potentially assume the chief secretary position temporarily. Her superannuation date falls in January 2027, providing stability.
Sudhir Rajpal represents another senior option. He manages health, family welfare, and medical education departments. However, Rajpal reaches superannuation this November, which might affect his selection.
R.S. Vundru completes the list of probable candidates. Government officials might consider him for home and finance departments if Misra receives the chief secretary assignment.
Background of the Medical Emergency
Anurag Rastogi faced a serious cardiac issue on January 7. Medical staff rushed him to a private hospital for immediate treatment. Doctors performed an unplanned bypass surgery the following day.
Medical professionals recommend at least two months of bed rest for proper recovery. Rastogi originally retired last year but received a one-year extension from the government. His current term concludes on June 30.
The Haryana administration now balances urgent leadership needs with bureaucratic continuity. All decisions will impact critical governance functions during this important budget season.
