Ashok Khemka IAS Retires After 57 Transfers: A Legacy of Integrity and Controversy
Ashok Khemka, the senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from Haryana, has retired after a distinguished career spanning over three decades. Known for his unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, Khemka’s tenure was marked by numerous transfers and bold decisions that often placed him at the center of controversy.
A Career Defined by Frequent Transfers
Joining the Haryana cadre in 1991, Khemka’s career was characterized by an extraordinary number of transfers. Over his 34-year tenure, he was transferred 57 times, averaging a new posting approximately every six months. This frequency of transfers is among the highest in the state’s bureaucracy, reflecting both his principled stance and the challenges he faced within the system.
Educational Background and Early Life
Born on April 30, 1965, in Kolkata, Khemka pursued a Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering from IIT Kharagpur. He furthered his education with a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and an MBA specializing in Business Administration and Finance. In addition, he completed an LLB from Panjab University during his service.
The Robert Vadra Land Deal Controversy
Khemka gained national attention in 2012 when, as Director General of the Consolidation Department, he canceled the mutation of a land deal in Gurugram involving Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s son-in-law, Robert Vadra. The deal was linked to real estate giant DLF, and Khemka’s action brought issues of land acquisition and political influence into the spotlight. His decision was met with both support for his integrity and criticism from political quarters.
Recent Posting and Retirement
In December 2024, five months before his retirement, Khemka was appointed as the Additional Chief Secretary of the Transport Department. This posting marked a significant role after years of assignments in departments perceived as low-profile. Notably, he had previously served as Transport Commissioner in 2015 but was transferred after only four months. His return to the department was seen as a noteworthy development in his career.
Advocacy for Anti-Corruption Measures
Throughout his career, Khemka was a vocal advocate for anti-corruption measures. In January 2023, he wrote to Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, offering to head the Vigilance Department to combat corruption. He expressed his willingness to lead a “real war against corruption,” emphasizing that no individual, regardless of their position, should be spared if found guilty.
Legacy and Impact
Ashok Khemka’s retirement concludes a career that has been both exemplary and contentious. His steadfast adherence to principles and his readiness to challenge the status quo have left an indelible mark on Haryana’s administrative landscape. While his frequent transfers may have hindered his professional growth, they also underscored his commitment to integrity over convenience. Khemka’s legacy serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by civil servants who prioritize ethical governance in the face of political pressures.