Shimla
With acting Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta set to retire on May 31, the race for Himachal Pradesh’s top bureaucratic post has gathered pace, triggering intense speculation in administrative and political circles.
Senior IAS officer K.K. Pant is being viewed as the leading contender for the coveted post. A 1993-batch officer, Pant currently holds key portfolios including Home and Forest and is considered one of the most experienced officers in the state administration. His long remaining tenure and strong administrative hold are seen as major advantages.
Another strong name in contention is 1994-batch IAS officer O.C. Sharma, known for his extensive field and administrative experience. Bureaucratic circles say Sharma’s balanced working style and acceptability across departments have strengthened his position in the race.
The contest has also drawn attention towards Bharat Khera, a 1995-batch IAS officer currently serving at the Centre as Secretary in the MSME Ministry. Khera’s previous experience in Himachal and his policy-level exposure in Delhi have made him a serious contender for the top post.
Sources say the Sukhu government is expected to take a final decision soon. While seniority remains an important factor, political equations and administrative compatibility are also likely to play a crucial role in the appointment.
As the suspense continues, the battle for the Chief Secretary’s chair has become one of the most talked-about developments in Himachal’s bureaucratic corridors.
