Real Kashmir 
Srinagar, August 30: The career of Ashok Kumar Parmar, a 1992 IAS officer, is now under intense scrutiny. Reports backed by official documents and firsthand accounts are shedding light on a history of inefficiency, disputes, and a lack of adherence to professional standards. Allegations of controversy have marred the trajectory of this high-ranking IAS officer’s career.
Ashok Kumar Parmar, a member of the 1992 IAS batch, has consistently faced criticism and complaints regarding his behavior and performance across various postings. The beginning of Parmar’s journey saw him in the role of Sub-Divisional Magistrate in Mendhar, where multiple complaints arose about his inefficacy.
A communication dated June 28, 1996, from B. R. Kundal, the then Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, sheds light on an ostensibly minor issue—the installation of a solar light—that escalated into a significant dispute, even leading to tension and court boycotts by Advocates. Additionally, Parmar’s unauthorized assumption of District Magistrate responsibilities in the absence of the Deputy Commissioner in Poonch generated public resentment.
“Complaints about Parmar’s behavior reached a zenith during a Governor’s visit, worsening the situation. Despite attempts by the Divisional Commissioner to rectify matters, no headway was made. Consequently, he was swiftly transferred to prevent further damage to his reputation and to curb public unrest,” according to sources.
Subsequent postings did little to improve Parmar’s reputation. In 1997, he faced scrutiny for leaving the state without proper authorization. Premature transfers became a recurring theme early in his career, casting shadows on his efficiency and managerial capabilities. As Deputy Commissioner in various districts, including Kargil and Udhampur, allegations ranged from questionable selection procedures to the misuse of state resources and conflicts with colleagues. Sources even revealed that Harsh Dev Singh, a former Minister and MLA, called for an inquiry into Parmar’s conduct during his tenure in Udhampur.
Parmar’s term as Vice Chairman of the Jammu Development Authority (JDA) was marked by controversies and clashes with subordinates. This turbulence adversely affected JDA’s performance, prompting the Minister for Housing and Urban Development to critique Parmar’s management style in communication with the Chief Secretary.
“Instances of turmoil were not unfamiliar in Parmar’s administrative roles. During his tenure as Administrative Secretary in the Science and Technology Department in 2007, subordinates and the JAKEDA Non-Gazetted Employees Union raised concerns about his use of inappropriate language and behavioral issues,” sources disclosed.
Even at the central level, Parmar’s performance remained uninspiring. His roles as Commissioner/Secretary for various departments and as Joint Secretary (Films) in the Government of India garnered “average” and below-average evaluations, respectively. His inability to secure an empanelment as Additional Secretary within the Government of India underscored his consistent underperformance.
“Upon returning to the Union territory in March 2022, Parmar’s performance as Principal Secretary for the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, and later in the Jal Shakti Department, failed to meet expectations. His lackadaisical approach was evident in the limited number of projects allocated, initiated, and completed. These figures significantly improved after his departure, underscoring his ineffectiveness in these roles,” sources added.
Parmar’s history of unsanctioned transfers, erratic behavior, and clashes with colleagues prompted multiple reassignments across various departments. His conduct, including the public sharing of inquiry reports prior to official submission, violated accepted norms. His request for a transfer outside Jammu and Kashmir was escalated to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Contrary to his assertions, postings in the region are determined based on merit, not influenced by caste or religion. Sources further revealed that allegations of financial irregularities related to the Jal Jeevan Mission were dismissed due to the territory’s transparent contracting system.
The ongoing controversy encircling Ashok Kumar Parmar’s career underscores the critical need for accountability, transparency, and consistent performance in public service roles, as per sources deeply familiar with the matter.
