Odisha govt rejects leave extension of VK Pandian’s wife IAS Sujata R Karthikeyan

The Mohan Majhi-led Odisha government rejected the leave extension application of IAS Sujata R Karthikeyan, wife of VK Pandian. 

Sujata, the Special Secretary of Odisha Finance department, had initially availed six months’ leave immediately after the debacle of BJD in the 2024 general elections. Notably, her husband VK Pandian is a BJD leader. 

In a letter, from Manoj Kumar Mohanty, additional secretary to the government, to Sujata R Karthikeyan, the General Administration and Public Grievance Department informed about the latest development.

“I am directed to invite a reference to your letter dtd. 04.11.2024 on the subject cited above and to say that after careful consideration, your leave application for extension of Child Care Leave for further period of 6 months w.e.f. 27.11.2024 is not acceded to.  You are, therefore, requested to join on 27.11.2024 i.e. after availing of the CCL from 31.05.2024 to 26.11.2024,” read the letter.

Also Read: Odisha govt Special Secy & VK Pandian's wife Sujata R Karthikeyan goes on leave for 6 months 

Earlier, the General Administration and Public Grievance Department had granted leave and issued an official letter to that effect (dated June 5). 

“In continuation to GA & PG Department office order No.13535/AlS.l dtd. 10.05.2024, Smt. Sujata R. Karthikeyan, IAS (RR-2000), special secretary to Government, Finance Department is granted Child Care Leave for a period of 6 months i.e. of 180 days w.e.f 31.05.2024 to  26.11.2024 to take care of her minor daughter appearing her 10th exam as per Rule 18-D of AlS (Leave) Rules, 1955,” the letter had stated. 

She had again applied for an extension of her leave for another six months.

However, the state government turned down her request, instructing her to join her duty from tomorrow, i.e. November 27.