Shivani Jaiswal ,Guwahati-

IAS officer Dhiman Chakma has been reappointed to an administrative post despite facing ongoing scrutiny in connection with alleged bribery charges, triggering debate over governance standards and disciplinary procedures

The reappointment order was issued after an internal review concluded that the officer could be assigned duties while the investigation remains under process. Chakma, a senior officer of the Indian Administrative Service, had earlier been placed under administrative watch following allegations that he was linked to a corruption-related complaint filed by a private contractor during a procurement process.

The allegations reportedly involve claims of irregular financial demands connected to project approvals. While the matter is still under investigation by the concerned vigilance authorities, no final chargesheet has been filed so far, and the officer has denied all wrongdoing.

The decision to reinstate him in an active role has sparked mixed reactions within administrative and public circles. Some officials argue that service continuity and legal presumption of innocence justify the move, especially in the absence of proven charges. Others, however, believe that assigning key responsibilities during an ongoing probe could undermine public trust in governance systems.

Civil society groups have raised concerns, calling for greater transparency in personnel decisions involving officers under investigation. They have also emphasized the need for faster resolution of corruption inquiries to avoid prolonged ambiguity.

Government representatives have stated that the reappointment follows established service rules and does not interfere with the ongoing inquiry. They added that disciplinary action, if required, will be taken once the investigation reaches a conclusion.

The case has once again highlighted the sensitive balance between due process and public accountability in the handling of senior bureaucratic officials facing allegations.