Srinagar, October 1 (IANS) The Election Commission of India on Tuesday asked the Jammu and Kashmir government to explain why an order for deputation of an army officer to the civil police was issued without the prior permission of the Commission when the Model Code of Conduct is in force.
Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday issued orders appointing Colonel Vikrant Parashar to the post of SSP (Training) and Special (Operations) in Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Objecting to the move, the Election Commission on Monday wrote to the Jammu and Kashmir government, “The Model Code of Conduct is in force in Jammu and Kashmir and thus there is a ban on transfer of election related officials. Without considering the propriety, procedure and urgency of appointing an Army officer to the post of SSP on the civil side during the period of operation of the Model Code of Conduct, the Commission directs that the order be kept in abeyance with immediate effect. If the order is issued, the position before the issue of the order will be restored with immediate effect.”
The Election Commission said the Chief Secretary will send a compliance report by 11 am on October 1, explaining why such an order was issued without the prior permission of the Commission.
Vikrant Prashar of the Parachute Regiment has already been approved by the Defense Ministry for two years’ deputation to the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. Shaurya Chakra awardee Prashar is from Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir and has distinguished himself in anti-terrorism operations. Earlier he was posted at the High Altitude Warfare School in Gulmarg area of the valley.
–IANS
SCH/CBT