Mysuru DC Shikha transferred for nailing rowdy neta?

BENGALURU, MYSURU: The government has moved out an upright IAS officer who took on a powerful, abusive politician and got him jailed. C Shikha, Deputy Commissioner of Mysuru, had lodged a complaint against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s confidant K Marigowda, who brazenly intimidated her in full view of other district officials.

Shikha has completed three years in her post — and that means it could be routine for her to be moved out — but her transfer comes just ahead of the spectacular Dasara festivities that call for the presence of a seasoned administrator. She will now serve as Commissioner of Social Welfare.

The story doesn’t end here. Her husband M N Ajay Nagabushan, Deputy Commissioner of Mandya district, has also been transferred, and made Commissioner of Food and Civil Supplies. The couple will have to move to Bengaluru.

Marigowda, who had been absconding for more than a month as he desperately sought bail, surrendered just a week ago. He has been suspended from the Congress.

JD(S) MLA G T Devegowda and Kannada organisations in Mysuru have termed the transfer of Shikha an act of vengeance against an honest official.

Shikha had been under pressure to withdraw the complaint against Marigowda, but she stood her ground. Sources say the ruling party even sent a retired IPS officer to dissuade her from pursuing the case. She refused to budge.  The transfer of the couple, soon after Marigowda was pushed behind bars, has strengthened the view that she has been punished for her grit.

D Randeep, who takes over from her in Mysuru, will have to pick up the ropes quickly as the deputy commissioner, the senior-most politician in the district, plays a crucial role in the smooth conduct of a festival witnessed by millions. S Ziyaullah is the new deputy commissioner of Mandya district.

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