Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru/Mangaluru
Bengaluru/Mangaluru, Dec 13: The Karnataka Administrative Tribunal (KAT) has issued an interim stay on the transfer of Girish Mohan S N, deputy director (senior geologist) in the mines and geology department, who was recently transferred from Mangaluru to Karwar.
The order has triggered discussions within government circles, raising questions about the administration’s handling of transfers and its legal response in sensitive service matters.
It may be recalled, the applicant, Girish Mohan, hasd challenged the transfer citing personal hardship. His wife is employed in Maddur, Mandya district, and the transfer to Karwar, he argued, would place an unreasonable burden on their family life. His counsel also pointed out that the Mangaluru post remains vacant and that relocating him without a replacement could affect ongoing departmental work.
The case has been registered as A. No. 4355/2025 before the KAT. After hearing the applicant, the tribunal directed the state government and the director of mines and geology to maintain status quo until the next hearing.
Tribunal’s interim directions
In its interim order, the tribunal acknowledged the applicant’s grounds related to family separation and the vacancy at his current station. It granted additional time for the State to file its reply and extended the status quo on the transfer. The next hearing has been scheduled for January 11, 2026.
Silence from Advocate General raises eyebrows
One point of discussion among legal observers is the absence of any public statement or clarification from Advocate General Bhanuprakash V G, who often represents the state in notable administrative disputes. His silence has prompted speculation regarding the state’s internal position on the transfer and whether the government intends to defend the order vigorously.
Concerns from senior bureaucracy
According to official records, the department of prosecution is representing the state of Karnataka in this matter.
Sources in the bureaucracy indicate that senior IAS officer and principal secretary (commerce) Rohini Sindhuri has reportedly expressed concern over the frequency of interim stays in service-related or sensitive cases. She is believed to have remarked, “If people get stays like this, how will ordinary citizens conduct their business?” highlighting broader questions of administrative efficiency and accountability.
Unverified speculations on political and administrative influence
Certain unverified claims circulating within bureaucratic circles suggest possible involvement or influence by figures such as Dinesh Gundu Rao, Mallikarjuna P A, or a joint secretary identified as Patel. However, no official evidence has surfaced to confirm any such role.
Similarly, allegations that ADGP Arun Chakravarthy advised against certain legal appearances remain unsubstantiated, with no government department issuing any confirmation.
Awaiting government’s official stand
The state government has not released an official statement regarding the stay order or its position on the transfer. With the Tribunal granting time for further submissions, clarity is expected to emerge as proceedings continue.
Broader implications
The case has reignited debate over government transfer policies, especially when they affect employees’ personal circumstances. It also underscores the need for transparency and consistency in administrative decisions that directly impact service personnel.
As the matter progresses, attention will be focused on the Karnataka government’s next steps and the tribunal’s further directions.