PIO shunted out for dharna speech

Senior Additional PIO (Administration) Shakuntala Mahawal has been given additional charge.

Singh, a secretary-level officer, invited the Government’s wrath for protesting outside the office of Information and Broadcasting Secretary Pawan Chopra along with senior IIS officials.

They had gathered to demand the immediate constitution of an IIS Board comprising heads of all media units; immediate filling up of all vacant posts in Prasar Bharati Corporation; reinstatement of officers who have been transferred out of Prasar Bharati; immediate filling up of the posts of Additional Director General News, Doordarshan, and immediate cadre review.

The principal information officer’s participation in the dharna prompted senior Government officials to state that action would be taken against him. ‘‘In fact the order to place him under compulsory wait leaves the option open for taking action against him,’’ sources said.

Singh, who attended office today refused to comment. When asked if he would resign, Singh said he had not made up his mind.