Kozhikode: The Advocate General (AG) has sought an explanation from the Kerala Government over the alleged violation of rules involved in the appointment of Devendra Kumar Verma as Head of Forest Force (HoFF) last year.
According to the AG, malpractice was involved in promoting Verma as the HoFF for a short period in order to enable him earn undue benefits. In its letter to the state government on the issue, the AG listed several points to support its view. However, the government has been unable to offer satisfactory explanations to these queries. Moreover, the government has failed to convince the Kerala High Court, which is considering a case on the matter, of the reasons behind the appointment.
Suspicious moves
The Forest Department had appointed Verma as HoFF when the incumbent P K Kesavan, who had one-and-a-half years’ service left, went on a 29-days’ leave. This move enabled Verma, who was junior to Kesavan but had his retirement date earlier, to superannuate as HoFF and earn a higher pay and pension. Incidentally, all orders related to these moves were issued when the Election Code of Conduct was in place during the elections to the Kerala Assembly in 2021.
The state government later informed the AG as well as the High Court that Verma was only given additional charge as HoFF. However, Verma had issued several official orders and directives on the official letter pad of HoFF, which make the government’s arguments hollow.
