Somanna's transfer plan raises eyebrows

Sources in the department said the minister has decided to transfer nearly six deputy directors, 100 food inspectors and a few other staff - all in the name of revamping the offices in Bangalore. The list of transfers is likely to be issued in a couple of days.

The decision to transfer a large chunk of officers much before the general transfer season would amount to violation of transfer rules, if implemented. The transfers of this magnitude are normally done during the period designated for general transfers i.e. April and May. In exceptional cases, Chief Minister has the authority to transfer officers in the middle of the year.  

Sources said the decision on the large scale transfers have invited the wrath of officers. A few employees, claiming to be close to the minister, are said to be collecting money from the employees promising them ‘remunerative’ postings. And in some cases, a few employees are said to have been asked to pay even to retain their present postings.

A couple of inspectors in the department said they would move the court if the government goes ahead with transfers.