CM Faces Minister Jarkiholi’s Displeasure – Transfer War in Belagavi
Belagavi:
In the border district of Belagavi, the issue of officer transfers has once again heated up the political atmosphere.
It is now being reported that certain names were marked on the transfer list without bringing it to the notice of the district in-charge minister, which has led to his displeasure.
This is said to be the first time the district in-charge minister—who is known to be close to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah—has openly expressed dissatisfaction over transfer matters.
Although similar discontent existed earlier, the minister had never made it public. It is known that in previous discussions with the CM, Minister Jarkiholi had raised development and other issues, but this time, for the first time, he reportedly expressed his dissatisfaction openly in front of the CM.
Sources say that during the meeting, the minister directly questioned how many of his officer transfer recommendations had been approved, and how many from other lists had been considered.
Minister Satish Jarkiholi has generally stayed away from the politics of transfers, but this time, he is said to have raised objections before the CM, citing the overall development needs of Belagavi district.
Focus on Three Officials
It is learned that during the CM’s meeting, discussions focused particularly on three officers in Belagavi district: Pratibha, the Assistant Commissioner of Bailhongal Subdivision; Parashuram Dudagunti of the Zilla Panchayat; and DFO Shivanand.
The minister reportedly requested the transfer of the Bailhongal AC, citing certain reasons. However, Bailhongal MLA Mahantesh Koujalagi and Ramdurg MLA Ashok Pattan supported the officer’s continuation, so she has remained in her post.
In the case of ZP CEO Parashuram Dudagunti, his transfer was almost certain. Reportedly, there was conflict among officers over a multi-crore tender in the Department of Backward Classes. As a result, calls for his transfer had emerged.
However, the conflict was resolved through mediation by an organization, and hence Dudagunti’s transfer was canceled.
There is still uncertainty regarding the transfer of the DFO.
Meanwhile, Savdatti MLA Vishwas Vaidya is said to have proposed the transfer of a senior officer from his constituency through the minister to the CM, though clarity is still awaited on that matter.
The Big Business of Transfers
There is talk that some individuals in Belagavi district are actively involved in the “transfer business,” using the names of ministers and MLAs to influence decisions.
It is alleged that not only are rates being quoted just to issue recommendation letters, but “packages” are being discussed for issuing final transfer orders.
In previous transfers, several officers are said to have lost lakhs of rupees in the process.
One point of concern is how some officers from outside districts are going to great lengths to get themselves posted in Belagavi—something that’s no longer a secret.
Taking note of all this, the district in-charge minister is said to have discussed the matter with the CM in an attempt to put a brake on such practices.
More Transfers Ready?
Sources reveal that a list of 12 officer transfers has been prepared, with the aim of ensuring overall development and maintaining law and order in Belagavi district.
It is said that this list was drawn up in accordance with the need for effective governance and administrative improvement.
Discussion reportedly also took place regarding the transfer of six police officers—including three from Belagavi city—who have failed to maintain law and order.
