Tension Between IAS Sudhansh Pant and Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Led to His Sudden Recall by Centre

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Rajasthan’s administrative circles and political corridors remain abuzz after the abrupt transfer of Chief Secretary IAS Sudhansh Pant back to the Centre. The decision, executed late on 10 November, has sparked widespread speculation about growing friction between Pant and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.

Centre Recalls Chief Secretary Mid-Tenure

Sudhansh Pant, who took charge as Rajasthan’s Chief Secretary on 1 January 2024 under central deputation, was expected to continue until his retirement in February 2027. His sudden recall—years ahead of schedule—has raised eyebrows across bureaucratic and political spheres.

A late-night order instructed Pant to report to Delhi, triggering immediate activity within the state’s administrative machinery. The Centre has now appointed him as Secretary in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, replacing Amit Yadav, who retires on 30 November.

Why Did the Centre Call Him Back?

Although administrative transfers are typically routine, the timing and circumstances of this move suggest deeper tensions. Political observers point to escalating friction between Pant and CM Bhajanlal.

Pant, appointed soon after the BJP’s victory in the 2023 assembly elections, was seen as the Centre’s trusted officer to lead Rajasthan’s bureaucracy under the new government.

Two-Power Centre Theory Behind the Rift

According to political analysts, the Bhajanlal government wanted to counter the perception that the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) was not in full control, and that key decisions were being influenced more by the Chief Secretary.

Opposition parties repeatedly alleged that major administrative decisions were being taken by the Chief Secretary rather than the CM. Within BJP circles, concerns were reportedly rising about the bureaucracy overshadowing political leadership.

Sources claim:

• Pant was increasingly sidelined in key matters.
• Several files were allegedly sent directly to the CMO, bypassing Pant in violation of protocol.
• Some major transfer decisions were reportedly approved without his consent.

These developments are believed to have caused frustration for Pant, ultimately leading to his return to Delhi.

A Move That Surprised Many

With nearly two years left before retirement and a stable tenure expected under the Bhajanlal administration (2023–2027), Pant’s sudden removal remains an unexpected development. The episode has fueled debates about administrative autonomy, political influence, and power dynamics within Rajasthan’s governance structure.

The Centre’s decision has not only reshaped the state bureaucracy but also intensified discussions around the growing divide between the Chief Minister’s Office and the state’s top bureaucrat.