In a first action of its kind after the imposition of the model code of conduct for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Jammu and Kashmir government has removed deputy commissioner Kathua Rohit Khajuria on directions of the election commission of India (ECI).
The general administration department issued formal ordersto this effect on Tuesday evening.
Khajuria was replaced by Vikas Kundal, an IAS officer of2013 batch, as the Kathua deputy commissioner.
A source told Greater Kashmir that modification ofKhajuria’s transfer order, days before the imposition of the model code ofconduct, prompted the poll-body to shift from the district.
On February 19, Khajuria, the then DC Kathua, wastransferred as the Udhampur deputy commissioner. But within next six days, thegovernment modified the order and retained him as DC Kathua.
The modification of transfer order raised eyebrows.
“There were complaints that he has proximity with apolitical party and a political leader,” an official told Greater Kashmir onthe condition of anonymity.
None in the ECI or the J&K government was willing tocome on record over the reasons that led to Khajuria’s transfer.
The DC Kathua also happens to be the returning officer forthe Kathua-Udhampur parliamentary segment which is going to polls in the secondphase on April 18.