Ranchi, November 30, 2024: Manjunath Bhajantri, the current Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Ranchi and a senior IAS officer, has approached the Supreme Court, challenging a Jharkhand High Court order that directed his removal from election-related duties. Manjunath Bhajantri has filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the apex court, seeking the nullification of the High Court’s decision.
The case highlights a significant legal development involving the administrative reshuffle and directives affecting state officials during the election period.
What Is the High Court Order?
The Jharkhand High Court, on September 22, had ordered departmental proceedings against Manjunath Bhajantri and directed his exclusion from election-related responsibilities. This decision came amidst the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct during the state assembly elections.
Following the High Court’s directive, Manjunath Bhajantri was promptly removed from his post as Ranchi DC and replaced by Varun Ranjan. However, after Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s swearing-in, Manjunath Bhajantri was reinstated as the Ranchi DC.
The High Court’s ruling also accepted an appeal challenging Manjunath Bhajantri’s involvement in election-related activities, citing concerns over administrative impartiality during the poll process.
The Special Leave Petition: Bhajantri’s Argument
Manjunath Bhajantri, in his petition, has sought the Supreme Court’s intervention to quash the High Court’s order. He contends that the directive to remove him from election duties and initiate departmental proceedings is unwarranted and detrimental to his professional integrity.
The SLP highlights Manjunath Bhajantri’s position that the High Court’s decision was procedurally flawed and lacked substantive grounds. The apex court is yet to list the petition for a hearing, leaving the matter pending for judicial scrutiny.
Administrative Shifts Amidst Assembly Elections
The controversy stems from administrative changes during the assembly election period. The High Court’s intervention led to Manjunath Bhajantri’s removal from the post of Ranchi DC, citing the need for unbiased administration during the elections.
However, his reinstatement post-elections sparked debate regarding the balance between administrative stability and political influence. The filing of the SLP adds another layer of legal and administrative complexity to the ongoing dispute.
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