Suspended IAS officer B Ashok attacks Left govt in Kerala over excessive authority and suspension

T'puram: Suspended senior IAS officer B Ashok on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the state govt, alleging that KIIFB CEO K M Abraham functioned as the "second-in-command" in the cabinet and exercised excessive authority over the past five years.Ashok claimed that an "IAS caucus" worked to ensure the continuation of the present govt. "IAS officers are not slaves. The approach over the past 10 years has been akin to that of a monarchy and it will end on May 4," he said.Drawing a comparison between administrations, Ashok said the first Pinarayi Vijayan govt first term had proper coordination while the second Pinarayi govt "lost rhythm completely." He alleged that around 12 retired officials were appointed to key positions by the govt and noted that former principal secretary M Sivasankar ensured effective coordination earlier. According to him, coordination with the civil service has since collapsed.Referring to his suspension, Ashok said he did not attach any importance to the order issued by what he termed a govt "rejected by the people of Kerala on April 9." He pointed out that the suspension order did not clearly specify the reasons and said he did not intend to approach a court or tribunal over it."The order mentions internal processes and says there is doubt whether it is critical in nature. As per civil service rules, the reason for suspension has not been clearly stated. I do not plan to move court or tribunal. This is a suspension order issued by a govt dismissed by voters on April 9. Let it remain on the table for now. The day the next govt is sworn in, this baseless suspension order will be withdrawn," he told reporters.Ashok further alleged that the govt had been targeting civil service officers since Jan 25, 2026, through general administration department. "Before leaving office, they are firing a last round at those they suspect as enemies," he said.He claimed that the IAS association in the state had taken the chief minister to the tribunal five times and secured orders quashing "illegal actions." He added that a final order was obtained affirming that the IAS cadre in Kerala must be managed strictly in accordance with All India Service rules, which, he said, caused "considerable discomfort" to the govt.According to Ashok, attempts were subsequently made to push him out of service through various strategies, including efforts to transfer him to a post meant for an officer 20 years his junior. "That too was stayed by the tribunal, resulting in repeated embarrassment to the govt," he said.He alleged that the suspension order issued on Wednesday evening cited his social media engagement as an attempt to relieve the "fatigue" of these developments. "I see this suspension as a recognition. I cannot sing praises for the govt. This order will soon end up in the dustbin," Ashok said.
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