THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has decided to appoint a new KSRTC Chairman. Tomin J. Thachankary held the positions of both Chairman and Managing Director. However, the newly appointed M.P. Dinesh was only given the position of MD. The government issued an order regarding this on Monday evening.

M.P. Dinesh is an officer of DIG rank. There are officers of IAS, IRS ranks within the Corporation board. It is the Chairman who presides board meetings. CMDs so far were officers of IAS and IPS ranks. DIG rank is equivalent to Additional Secretary, so such officers cannot preside board meetings. This is why the government is in search for a new Chairman.

Transport Principal Secretary Jyothilal would be considered to the position of Chairman. Or else KTDFC MD Rahul, who has an IRS rank, could be considered.

M.P. Dinesh’s official term is set to end on May 31. An MD appointed for such a short period could adversely effect KSRTC. Even if his period is further extended, one cannot expect him to take strong decisions.