Soon after getting formally installed as Uttar Pradesh chief minister, Akhilesh Yadav has got down to giving shape to his core team of bureaucrats, many of whom were known to have been loyalists of his father and Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav.
Anita Singh, who came into much controversy because of her proximity to Mulayam Singh Yadav during her last regime, bounced back on the all important position of secretary to Chief Minister. Along with her, Alok Kumar, who was so far holding charge as housing and industrial development secretary, also went to the chief minister's secretariat.
Mulayam's old favourite Shambhoo Singh Yadav also returned as special secretary in the CM's office.
However, other key appointments appear to have been made on considerations of merit rather than loyalty. Thus,1982 batch IAS officer R M Srivastava takes over as the state's new principal home secretary, replacing Kunwar Fateh Bahadur , who ran the home department for five years during Mayawati rule.
Rajiv Kumar (II) of 1985 batch has been appointed as secretary (appointments and personnel), that was held as additional charge by Kunwar Fateh Bahadur only.
Significantly, the new chief minister has decided to allow Anoop Misra of 1978 batch to continue as chief secretary for the time being. Meanwhile, the names of two top bureaucrats currently on deputation at the Centre were under active consideration for the top bureaucratic position.
No changes have so far been announced in the police set-up headed by 1977 batch IPS officer Atul , who continues as the state director general of police.
Atul was brought as the state's top cop on directions of the Election Commission which decided to give marching orders to Mayawati appointee Brij Lal on the eve of the assembly election.
