Retired IAS officer M.G. Devasahayam approached the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court on Wednesday, seeking a direction against the transfer of Md. Nasimuddin, IAS, from the post of Chairman of the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB).
In his public interest litigation petition, Mr. Devasahayam said that the State government’s decision to transfer Mr. Nasimuddin from the TNPCB was in violation of the Supreme Court’s guidelines and statutory norms with regard to the procedure to be followed for the appointment of a chairperson to the Board. He said Mr. Nasimuddin had played an important role as TNPCB Chairman in dealing with several matters of environmental concern, including the proceedings initiated against Sterlite Copper in Thoothukudi recently.
The petitioner said the relief sought by him was in no way meant to raise doubts about the capabilities of IAS officer Shambhu Kallolikar, who was appointed in place of Mr. Nasimuddin.
“A sudden change in a key portfolio at a crucial juncture is in contravention of the Supreme Court’s guidelines. The SC has, time and again, directed the Chief Secretaries of all States to ensure that appropriate persons are appointed to key positions, and [that they] are not frequently changed,” the petitioner said.
Mr. Devasahayam sought a direction to grant a stay against the G.O. in respect of the transfer of the TNPCB Chairperson.
He also sought a direction to the State to frame appropriate guidelines or recruitment rules in compliance with the Supreme Court’s guidelines for appointment of the Board’s Chairperson.