1. Case Overview
- The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a case against former Indian Coast Guard Director-General (DG) K. Natarajan and unknown others.
- Charges include criminal conspiracy, cheating, and forgery related to the alleged tampering of Annual Confidential Reports (ACRs)/dossiers of senior officers.
- The issue came to light after a representation by Inspector General (IG) Rakesh Pal in 2021, alleging deliberate manipulation of his ACRs to block his promotion.
2. Background on K. Natarajan
- Served as the 23rd DG of the Indian Coast Guard from July 1, 2019, to December 31, 2021.
- Allegedly involved in altering performance evaluations (ACRs) of officers for promotion considerations.
3. Key Allegations
- Tampering/alteration of ACRs of officers under consideration for promotion to Additional Director-General (ADG) rank.
- The Defence Ministry’s fact-finding committee, set up in response to the complaint, found irregularities in ACRs dating back to 2014-2019.
- Specific cases of manipulation:
- Some officers’ ACR grades were increased to benefit them.
- Rakesh Pal’s ACR was reduced, impacting his promotion in the 2019 Departmental Promotion Committee (DPC) meeting.
- Missing Non Initiation Certificates (NICs) and delayed submissions (3-4 years after the reporting period).
4. Investigation Process
- April 29, 2024: CBI launched a preliminary inquiry based on the Defence Ministry’s communication.
- Findings:
- ACRs were in sealed custody of the DG and handed over to successors upon transfer/superannuation.
- Alterations were detected in ACRs for 2014 and 2015, affecting promotions.
- No tampering was found before June 30, 2019, when previous DG Rajender Singh handed over ACRs to K. Natarajan.
5. Impact of the Allegations
- Raises concerns over integrity in military promotions and administrative transparency.
- Highlights the importance of unbiased performance evaluation in government services.
- May lead to policy reforms in ACR management and promotion criteria within security forces.
6. Way Forward
- Legal Proceedings: CBI case will determine accountability and possible legal action.
- Institutional Reforms: Strengthening of ACR handling, digital record-keeping, and independent review mechanisms.
- Impact on Bureaucratic and Military Ethics: Emphasizes the need for transparent governance and merit-based promotions.
This case underscores the need for robust oversight mechanisms in the Indian defence administration and ensures that promotions are based on merit rather than manipulation.
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