Govt planning to conduct investigation against N Prashanth; IAS officer's Facebook post sparks curiosity

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: With the completion of N. Prashanth's six-month suspension, the government is now contemplating further action against the former Agriculture Secretary.

Prashanth recently piqued public interest with a cryptic Facebook post stating that a critical decision would be made on Tuesday, fueling speculation about his next move.

The Suspension Review Committee has submitted its findings to the Chief Minister, suggesting an investigation prior to any potential disciplinary action. The government is reportedly seeking the Chief Minister's approval to appoint an investigating officer, with the option of selecting either a senior IAS officer or a committee of IAS officers to conduct the inquiry.

For suspensions lasting over six months, the Prime Minister's Office must approve the continuation of an IAS officer's suspension. As a result, the Chief Minister will make a decision based on the investigation report.

Prashanth's suspension followed a controversial social media post in which he targeted Additional Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak and Vytilla Mobility Hub MD K. Gopalakrishnan. Initially suspended for two months in November, Prashanth's suspension was extended for an additional four months in January.

While Gopalakrishnan, who faced suspension during the same period, was reinstated in January, Prashanth's response to a charge memo sent to the Chief Secretary was deemed inadequate. Despite sending several letters in response, his answers were found unsatisfactory, prompting the government to initiate an inquiry. Once the Chief Minister approves the process, further steps will be taken.