Varun Ranjan takes charge following controversy over predecessor
Key Points:
• Varun Ranjan replaces Manjunath Bhajantri as Ranchi’s Deputy Commissioner
• EC objected to Bhajantri’s appointment, prompting the change
• Six IAS officers transferred in recent government reshuffle
RANCHI – Ranchi has a new Deputy Commissioner following a recent appointment controversy, with Varun Ranjan stepping into the role.
Ranjan, a 2014 batch IAS officer, assumed office on Tuesday.
He replaces Manjunath Bhajantri, whose appointment faced objections from the Election Commission.
Previously, Ranjan served as the DC of Dhanbad district.
However, he was removed from that post due to alleged negligence during a Prime Minister’s program.
Meanwhile, Bhajantri has been reassigned to a new position.
He will now serve as the Chief Executive Officer of JSLPS.
The JSLPS role was previously held by Mrityunjay Kumar Varnwal.
Varnwal has since been appointed as the MNREGA Commissioner.
These changes are part of a broader administrative reshuffle in Jharkhand.
The state government recently transferred six IAS officers.
This reshuffle included the DCs of Ranchi, Jamtara, Latehar, and Pakur districts.
A knowledgeable source stated, "These transfers aim to optimize administrative efficiency."
The quick succession of appointments in Ranchi has raised eyebrows.
Nonetheless, officials assure that the transitions will not affect governance.
The new appointments are expected to bring fresh perspectives to their respective roles.
