Centre Proposes Major Penalty Against CM Mamata's Aide Alapan Bandyopadhyay, Given 30 Days To Defend

Alapan's tenure ended on May 31. The next day he was asked by the Ministry of Personnel to report to the North Block in Delhi. But he retired on the same day and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee immediately appointed Alapan as her Chief Adviser.

Alapan Bandyopadhyay was asked by the Ministry of Personnel to report to the North Block in Delhi on May 31. But he retired on the same day and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee immediately appointed Alapan as her Chief Adviser. (File Photo)

Kolkata: Former Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay's professional conduct was questioned and now major penalty proceedings have been proposed by the Union Ministry of Personnel. Delhi has also ordered an inquiry into the matter.

It was stated that within 30 days of the issuance of this notification, Alapan can submit a report in support of his defense or he can explain in person. If he does not do so, the inquiry committee will give a unilateral verdict on basis of the allegations against him.

Alapan's tenure ended on May 31. The next day he was asked by the Ministry of Personnel to report to the North Block in Delhi. But he retired on the same day and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee immediately appointed Alapan as her Chief Adviser. After that, Alapan replied to a letter from the Centre, but the staff ministry is not satisfied with that either.

A notification issued on June 18 directing an inquiry against Alapan Bandyopadhyay said that the central government was proposing to impose a large fine on him under Rule 8 of the All India Service (Discipline and Appeal) Act because there are some charges against him for professional misconduct.

A separate list containing all those allegations is also provided with the memorandum. Apart from that, all the evidence-based on which the charge has been framed is also given.

The statement informed that Alapan could accept the allegations, or he had the right to object. But whatever he does, he should do it in 30 days from June 18.

Neither Nabanna nor Alapan has yet responded to the Centre's notice and the report is yet to be updated.

Alapan has just lost his mother, after the death of his brother a few days ago. However, on that day he had visited Nabanna. Now it remains to be seen whether he will say anything to the media or respond directly to the Centre.