CBI – Centre Extends Pravin Sood’s Term Amid Administrative And Political Speculation

  CBI –  The Union government has approved a one-year extension for Central Bureau of Investigation Director Pravin Sood, allowing him to remain in office until May 2027 even though his retirement was scheduled for this month. The decision has generated considerable discussion in bureaucratic and police circles, particularly because senior IPS officer Manoj Sashidharan was widely viewed as a leading candidate for the role.

Extension Triggers Fresh Discussion in Bureaucratic Circles

Officials familiar with the matter indicated that the extension may have been influenced by several ongoing sensitive investigations currently being handled by the agency. Pravin Sood, who took charge as the CBI chief in 2023, will now continue overseeing major cases during a politically significant period.

At the same time, Manoj Sashidharan, a Gujarat cadre IPS officer serving as CBI Special Director, had emerged as a prominent name for the position due to his experience and administrative background. Within government and law enforcement circles, he is considered an influential officer with strong institutional credibility.

Sources also suggested that the Centre may have preferred continuity in leadership because of possible political developments in West Bengal and other states where investigations handled by the agency could become increasingly significant in the coming months.

Gujarat Secretariat May Witness Another Administrative Reshuffle

Meanwhile, speculation over another round of senior-level administrative transfers has intensified in the Gujarat Secretariat shortly after a large reshuffle involving 72 IAS officers.

The discussion gained momentum after senior officials Mona Khandhar and Aarti Kanwar moved to Delhi on deputation, creating vacancies in important departments. Attention has now shifted to the post of Chief Commissioner of GST, where senior bureaucratic changes are reportedly under consideration.

According to officials familiar with the developments, Finance Additional Chief Secretary Natarajan could receive full-time responsibility for the position if changes are approved within the Finance Department. Separate discussions are also taking place regarding a permanent appointment in the Food and Civil Supplies Department.

The possibility of another reshuffle has further increased after reports emerged that several senior IAS officers have sought transfers to different departments or administrative assignments. Although no official announcement has been made so far, the developments have led to growing anticipation inside the state administration.

Internal Conflict Deepens Within Gujarat Congress

Political tensions have also escalated within the Gujarat Congress after senior Surat leader Maqsood Mirza publicly challenged the party’s disciplinary action against him.

Mirza stated that he became aware of his suspension only after the related letter circulated widely on social media platforms. He alleged that the party leadership failed to follow proper internal procedures before taking action.

The controversy began after Mirza posted sharp criticism targeting Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee chief Amit Chavda and other members of the state leadership. His remarks reportedly triggered immediate reactions within the party organization.

Following the public comments, disciplinary committee chairman Natwarsinh Mahida ordered Mirza’s suspension over allegations of indiscipline. The episode has once again highlighted ongoing factional tensions within the state unit of the Congress party ahead of upcoming political activities in Gujarat.