Thiruvananthapuram: In a bizarre turn of events, IAS officer Prasanth has received his third disciplinary notice from the government, not for any administrative lapse, but for allegedly failing to “praise the government enough” in a Facebook post, just days after he filed a corruption complaint against senior bureaucrat Dr. Jayathilak.
The stunning revelation was made by Prasanth himself via a detailed Facebook post on November 26, detailing the escalating punitive actions being taken against him since he flagged Dr. Jayathilak’s alleged corruption to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) on November 17.
The Original Complaint
Prasanth’s initial complaint against Dr. Jayathilak was based on official Registration/Revenue/Survey department records, which he claims prove that Dr. Jayathilak submitted a false affidavit and concealed property details before the government. Prasanth invoked All India Service Rules, Rule 7, submitting his petition to the Chief Minister, who is the disciplinary authority.
Escalation: Punished for ‘Insufficient Praise’
”Nine days later, the action is strong again. Only, it is against me, the complainant,” Prasanth wrote.
The latest disciplinary proceeding targets a Facebook post made by Prasanth on June 13, 2025, which praised the innovative model of appointing distinguished, retired officials like Dr. K.M. Abraham, who retired eight years ago, as ex-officio Secretaries.
The post, which Prasanth claims was meant to be entirely positive, included a passage that has now been deemed ‘Misconduct’:
“Instead of current ‘rule-only’ officers, these temporarily appointed ex-officio secretaries will surely be a valuable asset. They can take risks and do good for the state, as they are not the kind of government officials who unnecessarily cite laws and rules. If this model is implemented, the government could even appoint a Secretary on a daily wage.”
Prasanth expressed his bewilderment, asking: “Where is the rule violation in saying they will be a ‘valuable asset’ and ‘can take risks and do good’? Is my crime that my praise lacked sufficient power? Was the flattery not loud enough?” He noted the significant resources dedicated by the government to monitor his personal Facebook page to identify posts for disciplinary action.
Concluding his post on Constitution Day, Prasanth satirically remarked on the current climate: “The golden age has arrived where the King decides what one should say. They will also dictate how one should praise. Even if those without permission to praise do so, action will be taken. Beware!”
This is to be seen in the context of many blue-eyed IAS officers of the Kerala cadre singing songs in praise of the Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Recently a dance programme was organised in honour of the Chief Minister where traditional songs were sung, replacing the names of the Gods with that of the Chief Minister.
