IAS Officer Who Quit Over ‘Losing Freedom Of Expression’ Was Facing Disciplinary Action For Misconduct

IAS officer Kannan Gopinathan who recently resigned from the civil services to “get his freedom of expression back” was facing a show-cause notice from the Home Ministry for disciplinary action over five counts of misconduct, India Today has reported.

Gopinathan who claimed his actions were motivated in solidarity with the people of Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370, had been served a show-cause notice from the Home Ministry in July. He was posted as Secretary - power, urban development, town and country planning in Dadra and Nagar Haweli.

The two page notice for misconduct reportedly cited five reasons for which disciplinary action could be initiated against him. The charges levelled against him include insubordination, dereliction of duty and dilatory tactics.

Some of the instance where he allegedly violated norms include visiting his home state of Kerala to help in flood relief efforts but failing to file any report about the same post his return. He also reportedly failed to comply with the orders to prepare nominations for Prime Minster’s award for innovation in public administration.

Gopinathan in response has flatly denied the charges and asserted that his decision to quit was based on his stance on “Kashmir’s fundamental rights” and not on the show-cause notice received from the Home Ministry.