The decision to remove Agrawal was taken by Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil, who exercised special powers after complaints of “irregularities” in the functioning of WAPCOS.
The Jal Shakti Ministry on Wednesday issued marching orders to WAPCOS chairman-cum-managing director (CMD) Rajni Kant Agrawal over “ irregularities”. Agrawal was appointed the WAPCOS CMD for five years on October 1, 2021. His term was expected to end in October 2026.
“I am directed to convey that the competent authority in the Ministry of Jal Shakti (DoWR) has decided that Shri Rajni Kant Agrawal is divested of the charge of the post of CMD, WAPCOS Ltd with immediate effect until further orders,” stated the order by Bhuwan Bhasker Panday, Under Secretary, Jal Shakti Ministry. The statement said that WAPCOS Director (Finance) Pankaj Kapoor has been given additional charge of the post of CMD for a three-month duration. He is directed to take over “immediately”.
The decision to remove Agrawal was taken by Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil, who exercised special powers after complaints of “irregularities” in the functioning of WAPCOS.
The Indian Express called Agrawal but availed no response. But Kapoor has confirmed that he took charge as CMD on Wednesday night.
Harikishan Sharma, Senior Assistant Editor at The Indian Express' National Bureau, specializes in reporting on governance, policy, and data. He covers the Prime Minister’s Office and pivotal central ministries, such as the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Ministry of Cooperation, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Ministry of Rural Development, and Ministry of Jal Shakti. His work primarily revolves around reporting and policy analysis. In addition to this, he authors a weekly column titled "STATE-ISTICALLY SPEAKING," which is prominently featured on The Indian Express website. In this column, he immerses readers in narratives deeply rooted in socio-economic, political, and electoral data, providing insightful perspectives on these critical aspects of governance and society. ... Read More