Former Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar Takes the Helm at UPSC

In a recent development, retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer and former Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). This appointment was officially announced by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) late Tuesday, confirming Kumar’s role under Article 316(1) of the Indian Constitution.

A Brief Tenure Change

Kumar, who belongs to the 1985 batch of the Kerala cadre IAS, will assume his new role upon taking office. His appointment comes after the tenure of his predecessor, Preeti Sudan, concluded on April 29.

Sudan, a former Health Secretary, was appointed to the position in July 2024 following the sudden resignation of Manoj Soni. Soni, who had served as a UPSC member from June 2017 to May 2023 before becoming Chairperson, cited personal reasons for his departure, leaving his post five years early.

Questions Surrounding the Previous Resignation

Soni’s resignation sparked questions from opposition parties who questioned the government’s delayed announcement and sought clarification on the circumstances surrounding his departure. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge even hinted at possible connections between Soni’s resignation and alleged scandals within the UPSC.

Recent UPSC Controversies

Last year, the UPSC faced significant scrutiny in the wake of the Puja Khedkar controversy. Khedkar was accused of fraudulently obtaining additional attempts in the civil services examination by falsifying her identity. The UPSC ultimately cancelled her provisional candidature and barred her from future examinations.

Soni’s resignation occurred in early June, preceding the emergence of the Khedkar controversy.

UPSC’s Role

The UPSC plays a crucial role in India’s governance structure. It conducts the central civil services examination, oversees promotions, deputations, and disciplinary cases related to various civil services.