The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued orders extending the appointment of Manoj Jhalani, Joint Secretary in the Ministry, as the Chief Vigilance Officer of AIIMS.
The new announcement has, however, raised eyebrows, since the Chief Vigilance Commissioner’s (CVC) clearance has not been sought for Mr. Jhalani’s extension.
Mr. Jhalani was appointed in place of Dr. Vishwas Mehta, who was designated as the CVO after the removal of Sanjiv Chatuvedi from the position by the Ministry, claiming that his appointment did not have the sanction of the CVC.
According to sources, after the Ministry removed Mr. Chaturvedi, a whistleblower from the position, Dr. Mehta was appointed as the CVO, but on his repatriation to Kerala, his parent cadre from October 9, 2014, Mr. Jhalani was given charge of AIIMS in addition to his responsibility as CVO of the Ministry with effect from October 10, 2014 for three months or till further orders.
The Ministry issued another office notification on November 7, 2014, extending Mr. Jhalani’s term for another three months with effect from November 13, 2014 or till regular orders, whichever is earlier.
Sources pointed out that the extension beyond three months has to be sanctioned by the CVC and in this case too, permission has not been sought from the CVC.
Ministry officials were unavailable for comment.
