S K Mishra may be new ED chief

NEW DELHI: Income tax officer Sanjay Kumar Mishra has emerged as the front-runner for the post of Enforcement Directorate chief with an announcement expected as early as Friday.

This will be the first time that an Indian Revenue Service officer will occupy the top slot in the agency which has been in the midst of controversy for the last few months. Current ED Karnal Singh’s term is due to end on Friday and as reported by TOI, the IPS officer is unlikely to be given an extension.

Mishra, a 1984 batch officer, is currently posted as chief commissioner in the capital and has wide-ranging experience including in investigation and foreign tax matters. He was the joint secretary handling foreign taxation issues at the time of the Vodafone dispute.

Traditionally, the ED’s job was held by officers from the IAS cadre until the Modi government opted for Singh. This time, it is looking to appoint someone who can maintain a tight grip on the agency.