IAS Rules on Political Activity Spotlighted as Kannan Gopinathan Enters Politics::
Former IAS officer Kannan Gopinathan recently joined the Congress party, raising questions about service rules governing bureaucrats and political engagement. IAS officers are expected to maintain political neutrality during their tenure. They must resign or seek voluntary retirement before formally joining any political party or contesting elections.
Gopinathan’s resignation from the IAS has reportedly been pending for six years, which he claims has been used to harass him and undermine his credibility. “I don’t know what the government’s intention is, but the effect of keeping my resignation pending for six years has been to harass and to try to diminish my credibility,” he told this newspaper.
His case highlights challenges faced by bureaucrats transitioning to political roles and underscores the importance of transparent, timely processing of resignations to uphold democratic principles and individual rights.
