Gujarat compulsorily retires two IAS officers in anti-corruption drive

The Gujarat administration on Thursday compulsorily retired IAS officers K Rajesh and Gaurav Dahiya under the framework of 'Operation Gangajal', the state government's anti-corruption programme targeting errant bureaucrats.

The forced retirements are among several disciplinary actions initiated by the state in recent months to address allegations of administrative misconduct and corruption within its civil service ranks. Officials said the two officers were found to have violated service conduct rules, though specific charges were not immediately detailed.

'Operation Gangajal', launched to strengthen institutional integrity, has seen multiple senior and mid-level bureaucrats removed from their positions. The initiative reflects the government's stated commitment to purging the administrative machinery of officials deemed unfit for public service.

The compulsory retirement of IAS officers requires government approval and typically follows internal investigations and departmental proceedings. Such action effectively ends an officer's government career and benefits structure, serving as a severe administrative penalty short of criminal prosecution.

The move is part of a broader pattern across Indian states to enhance transparency and accountability in government operations, with several administrations intensifying scrutiny of their civil service personnel in recent years.