K P Ernest named new envoy to NZ

Starting the endgame of the embarrassing situation created by Indian High Commissioner Harish Dogra, the Government today named K P Ernest as India8217;s new envoy to Wellington. This terminates the accreditation being enjoyed by Dogra.

After Dogra did not arrive on April 15, a date chosen by him in response to the recall ordered by South Block, the government decided to take this step. Subsequent to this, a series of disciplinary measures, including suspension and an inquiry into Dogra8217;s conduct, could also follow. The officer became an embarrassment for New Delhi after he went to the New Zealand media with allegations against Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran.

Posted in Wellington two years ago, Dogra was recalled on March 1 as per the 8220;relevant service rules8221;, MEA spokesman Navtej Sarna said today. The recall has been ordered under the IFS pay, leave and compensatory allowances rules.

The decision had been conveyed to New Zealand8217;s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the country8217;s High Commissioner here, Sarna said.

A 1975 batch IFS officer, Ernest is Additional Secretary Policy Planning and Research in the External Affairs Ministry. He was expected to assume charge shortly, Sarna added. 8212; ENS