Know more about Kuldip Narayan, IAS; Is his suspension a handiwork of Patna builders’ lobby?

Kuldip Narayan

IN A late night order on Friday, Bihar government suspended chief executive officer-cum-commissioner of Patna Municipal Corporation Kuldip Narayan for his failure to utilize allotted fund meant for development of civic amenities in FY2012-13 and FY2013-14. But, as it seems apparent, this 2005 batch IAS officer known for honesty and integrity, has become a victim of all-powerful builders’ lobby in Patna. The Bihar chapter of IAS officers’ association which had earlier met chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi is demanding security cover to Narayan for alleged threat on him by…
the builders’ lobby.

Who is Narayan?
Originally hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Narayan is a 2005 batch Bihar cadre IAS. A mechanical engineer from IIT-Kanpur before entering into IAS, he is 34 year old. Earlier, he has served as district magistrate in Gopaljang, Chapra and Munger. In April 2013, he took charge as municipal commissioner of Patna.

What’s the Charge?
Narayan was suspended after the government made a series of allegations against him: Non-purchase of fogging machines, non-implementation of solid waste treatment plant, failure to initiate anti-encroachment drive etc. The suspended officer will now report to the PMC headquarters.

Myth Vs Truth?
The reality is the officer took tough action against 472 illegal buildings and apartments. The encroached part of many of those constructions were already demolished. Reportedly, the immediate trigger of his suspension was his order banning the construction of top two floors of Patna Central Mall, owned by a ruling party's powerful MLA Anant Singh. BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi has charged that the Bihar government appeared to have “totally surrendered” before MLA Anant Singh.

What Next?
The issue is likely to come up in courts on Monday, as the Patna High Court in an order dated July 8, 2013 had put a stay on the transfer of the PMC commissioner. According to reports, IAS officers association is likely to appeal in the Patna high court against Narayan’s suspension.
In January 25, 2011, BoI wrote a piece on two honest officers who were the first to declare their assets and liabilities including minor details such as buying of televisions and mobile phones even when Bihar government set a deadline for all officers to declare their assets. One of those two officers was Kuldip Narayan, the other being Balamurugan D.
Also Read 
BoI’s 2011 article on Kuldip Narayan