Extension for Gupta certain

CHANDIGARH, Oct 14: The continuation of Anuradha Gupta as the UT Home Secretary for another year is almost certain as the Haryana government may not press for her repatriation again after the Union Home Ministry intervened to grant an extension.

According to sources, the state government is unlikely to join issue with the Centre on the matter. Union Home Minister L.K. Advani had written to Haryana Chief Minister Bansi Lal to say it will not be possible to relieve Gupta at the expiry of her three-year tenure on October 25 as she was handling quot;sensitive vigilance mattersquot;.

However, the IAS lobby in the state is divided on the issue as some officers feel that the officer should be recalled immediately. quot;The issue of vigilance cases appears to be an excuse to extend her tenure,quot; they allege.

Gupta8217;s repatriation had led to a confrontation between the UT Administration and the state government. While the Administration wanted to retain the officer for another year, the Haryana government initially conceded the request but rescinded its decision within a few days. UT responded by referring the matter to the Home Ministry.