Transfer in forest department: Sajan not appointed as CCF, but given charge, says govt

KOCHI: The government has informed the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) that Deputy Conservator NT Sajan, who is accused in the Muttil tree felling case, has not been appointed as the Chief Forest Conservator (CCF). The affidavit was filed by the govt on pleas filed by Sanjay Kumar, former CCF Southern Zone, and DK Vinod Kumar, Deputy Conservator, Northern Region, against their transfer. The affidavit filed by the Department of Public Administration states that it is common practice to appoint Deputy Conservators as Chief Conservators due to a shortage of staff and that the IFS Act does not apply to such assignments. Sanjay Kumar, who was the Southern CCF, was replaced by Sajan. DK Vinod Kumar, Deputy Conservator of the North, who had lodged a report against Sajan in the Muttil tree felling case, was transferred to Kollam. The CAT had stayed these transfers while considering the earlier petitions. After considering the petitions yesterday, the court direct to continue stay till further order.

From the affidavit

The Principal Chief Conservator had recommended to the Government to appoint Pramod G Krishnan, the current Deputy Principal Chief Conservator, to the post of Ex-Cadre of the Additional Principal Chief Conservator. But the recommendation was rejected because he holds six key positions. It was then decided to appoint Sanjay Kumar as the Working Plan and Research CCF. The transfer of three persons including Sajan was also decided along with this. No recommendation from the Civil Service Board is required for assignments. The CAT cannot interfere with this order.