The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has raised serious allegations against former Chief Secretary VP Joy, stating that his reappointment was in violation of regulations. A report obtained by Karma News reveals that VP Joy received an excess payment of ₹19.3 lakh, violating Kerala Service Rules. Additionally, several other irregularities were mentioned in the report.
To facilitate his reappointment, the government created the position of Chairman of the Public Enterprises Recruitment Board. Critics argue that such appointments deny promotions to serving officers and increase the state’s financial burden. There are also claims that the reappointments of top officials, including the Chief Secretary and DGP, serve as rewards for their favors to the ruling CPI(M) government.
VP Joy’s financial dealings, properties, and foreign travels have also come under scrutiny. Reports suggest that he was a close confidant of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, much like former Principal Secretary M Sivasankar. Allegations claim that VP Joy frequently accompanied the Chief Minister on foreign trips.
As per service norms, reappointed officials should receive salaries after deducting their pension. However, VP Joy was given a ₹5 lakh salary through a special government order, bypassing this rule. If challenged legally, both VP Joy and the government could face legal consequences, with some even suggesting potential jail time for the former Chief Secretary due to the misuse of public funds.
