Senior IAS officer Nikunja Dhal’s social media post sparks debate in Odisha

A recent social media post of senior IAS officer Nikunja Bihari Dhal, who is currently on Central deputation, has sparked debate in Odisha. Political leaders are also abuzz with the bureaucrat’s personal and intense expressions.

Also Read: Odisha-cadre IAS Nikunja Dhal sent on central deputation

“I had returned from central deputation to serve my home State Odisha in October 2017. Yesterday (on May 2, 2025), the State Government relieved me for the deputation. I shall be joining Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India as OSD in Secretary rank and thereafter take over the charge of Secretary of the same Ministry when the present incumbent superannuates on 30.6.2025,” the senior IAS officer said.

“Last few weeks have been stressful for me. I was hospitalised in early March. I could not attend to my family and personal matters over last 18 months. I could not also take care of my health. The most challenging General Elections in 2024 which I conducted as the Chief Electoral Officer and the subsequent posting as Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, which required long working hours disturbed my work life balance and affected my health,” IAS officer Dhal stated.

“Hoping for some balance in the coming days. Whatever happens is the wish of the God. God has His own plans. Grateful to the Almighty for his abundant blessings. Gratitude to my family for their full support and understanding. Thankful to my friends and well wishers for standing by me in hours of need,” the senior IAS officer expressed.

Worth mentioning, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, and the Department of Personnel and Training had effected a brief reshuffle in the IAS-cadre, on April 18, 2025.

Accordingly, senior Odisha-cadre bureaucrat Nikunja Bihari Dhal has been sent on Central deputation, a notification issued in this regard by the ACC mentioned.

New Parliamentary Affairs Secretary

Nikunja Dhal, a 1993-batch IAS officer, was appointed as the new Secretary of the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. Previously serving as the Additional Chief Secretary to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Dhal will take over from Umang Narula, who is scheduled to retire on June 30, 2025.

Must Read: Who will be ‘powerful officer’ in Odisha CMO after senior IAS Nikunja Dhal sent on central deputation?

With a distinguished track record in the Odisha government, including roles as Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) to the Chief Minister and Chief Electoral Officer, Nikunja Dhal brings a wide array of administrative and governance experiences to his new position in the Union Ministry, where his insights are expected to make a meaningful impact.