Isaac's appointment as ‘Vijnana Keralam' director as per law: Govt to Kerala HC
In a counter-affidavit filed in response to a petition by A Navas of Thiruvananthapuram challenging the appointment, the govt stated that Isaac has been appointed on an honorary basis, offering his services without any remuneration. However, a monthly amount of Rs 70,000 has been sanctioned to cover fuel expenses for the use of his personal vehicle for official purposes, with a driver appointed on a contract basis.
Denying the petitioner's allegation that the appointment has caused a significant loss to the public exchequer, the govt contended that there is no financial impropriety involved.
The petitioner had further claimed that the appointment was made under a non-existent department, namely, the department of planning and finance (development innovation). Supporting this claim, the amicus curiae appointed by the court submitted an affidavit stating that no such department appears to have been created under the executive rules of the state govt.
Planning and economic affairs department under secretary K S Manot clarified in the counter-affidavit that the said unit functions as a wing under the planning and economic affairs department. HC is scheduled to consider the petition on July 3.
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