In a new turn to reports of a faction feud among IAS officers in Kerala, Chief Secretary E K Bharat Bhushan has came out openly on the issue and denied charges that he 'harassed' some IAS officers and suppressed assets from the government.
In a press note, Bhushan gave details of his assets and said they have been included in the property statement.
Bhushan said there was no basis for the charge that he harassed and made adverse remarks in the annual appraisal report of Printing and Stationary Director Raju Narayanasway and Labour Secretary Tom Jose.
He also wanted all concerned to retreat from giving such false reports, maligning individual that would weaken the morale of an officer.
Earlier today when the matter came up in the assembly as a notice for an adjournment motion, moved by CPI-M led LDF Opposition members, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said that issues among IAS officers would be resolved.
He also said senior IAS officer and Vice-Chairman of State Planning Board K B Chandrasekher has been asked to intervene to settle the matter.
Chandy also denied charges levelled against the Chief Secretary by Opposition leader V S Achuthanandan.
Replying to the notice, Chandy said the issue had been blown out of proportion by the media, but admitted that civil servants have certain complaints and government was looking into it and would find a solution.
He also denied the opposition charge that there was a complete breakdown of administration due to IAS officers' revolt. "There is no administrative impasse and any legal problem involved", he said.
Seeking leave for the motion, Mathew T Thomas (JD-S) had brought to the notice of the House that senior IAS officer Raju Narayanswamy had complained before IAS Association that he was being 'harassed' by the Chief Secretary.
Thomas also alleged that faction feud among IAS officers has tainted the image of civil service and state administration had come to a standstill.
Not satisfied with chief minister's reply, the entire opposition, led by Achuthanandan had staged a walkout.
