Major Judicial Reshuffle in Koppal District Following Financial Probe
In a substantial administrative development within the Karnataka judiciary, a total of 48 court staff members across Koppal district have been subjected to transfers or deputations. This sweeping action was initiated by Chandrashekar C., the principal district and sessions judge for Koppal, through orders issued on February 23, which took immediate effect.
Background and Trigger for the Action
The large-scale reshuffle was precipitated by serious allegations that surfaced during a Republic Day event. Following these concerns, permission was granted for conducting surprise visits to various courts operating under the Koppal district jurisdiction. Subsequently, specific officials were issued notices pertaining to financial transactions and were directed to submit their bank statements for scrutiny.
AV Kanavi, the president of the Koppal District Bar Association, provided confirmation regarding the proceedings. He noted that while several officials complied by submitting explanations and the required documentation, some reportedly failed to furnish the necessary details. This non-compliance led to the initiation of further administrative measures, culminating in the present extensive transfer and deputation exercise.
Scope and Details of the Transfers
The administrative reorganization encompasses courts located in Koppal, Gangavathi, Kushtagi, and Yelburga. The affected judicial bodies include:
- The principal district and sessions court
- The 1st additional district and sessions court situated at Gangavathi
- Senior civil judge and JMFC courts
- Principal civil judge and JMFC courts across various taluks
The 48 officials impacted by this move belong to multiple cadres, such as senior shirastedars, first division assistants, and second division assistants. In numerous instances, officials who were previously working on deputation had their deputations revoked and were instructed to return to their regular postings. Others were transferred to new courts within the district, and in some cases, officials were both transferred and then deputed to another court as part of the administrative restructuring.
Administrative Directives and Rationale
The official order explicitly stated that the reshuffle was executed to promote smooth administration and enhance the effective functioning of the courts. All transfers and deputations are to remain in force until further orders are issued.
The judicial officers involved were directed to relieve the transferred and deputed officials on the afternoon of February 28, ensuring that the charge was properly handed over in strict accordance with Rule 24 of the Karnataka Civil Services Rules. Furthermore, the officials were mandated to report for duty at their newly assigned or deputed courts on the forenoon of March 3 without any delay.
Significance and Expected Outcomes
This large-scale reorganization is regarded as one of the most significant internal administrative exercises within the district judiciary in recent times. According to sources, the primary objectives are to strengthen discipline, increase transparency, and boost operational efficiency across all courts in the Koppal district. The move underscores a proactive approach to addressing administrative challenges and reinforcing the integrity of the judicial system at the district level.
