Lack of synergy spurs search for CM-aligned new Chief Secretary in MP

Speculation over successor underscores need for stronger CM-bureaucracy alignment in state

- SATYAPRAKASH SHARMA

BHOPAL: With Chief Secretary (CS) Anurag Jain's tenure ending this month, political and bureaucratic circles in Madhya Pradesh are abuzz over whether the 1990-batch IAS officer—appointed last year with the Centre's backing—will be given an extension or replaced by a Chief Minister Mohan Yadav-backed choice.

The state government has expedited the process of finding a new CS. The focus is on appointing someone who will work in closer alignment with the Chief Minister and help the government exercise stronger control over administrative decisions, policy implementation, and bureaucratic functioning.

Jain was brought to the top post on September 30, 2024, in what was widely perceived as the Central leadership's imprint on the state's bureaucracy. His appointment reportedly did not align with the state government's preferences, setting the stage for a working relationship that insiders say has been marked by limited synergy.