Thiruvananthapuram: Dr. V. Venu, the former Chief Secretary of Kerala, has penned a heartfelt tribute on Facebook to his colleague and friend, Dr. Shakeel Ahammed IAS, currently serving as the Chief Secretary of Meghalaya. Dr. Venu’s post describes Dr. Ahammed as an irreplaceable figure in the Indian Civil Service, highlighting his exceptional talent, dedication, and profound humanistic approach to service.
​”If you ask me one name I remember most dearly in my 34 years of civil service, I would unhesitatingly say Dr. Shakeel Ahammed IAS,” wrote Dr. Venu. “Those who know him will attest that there is no one else to replace Shakeel in this great nation. This is a rare Indian phenomenon.”
​Dr. Venu praised Dr. Ahammed as a “hardworking and talented” individual with a “clear service mindset that stands for people.” He also noted Dr. Ahammed’s diverse talents, describing him as an artist, footballer, and chef.
​The former Chief Secretary recalled their amusing first meeting in 1991 during his wedding reception. A young homoeopathy doctor, Dr. Ahammed, nervously approached him, shook his hand, and whispered, “Brother, you didn’t invite me, but I came to see you.” Dr. Venu described this interaction as a ‘package of purity and innocence,’ marking the beginning of their lasting friendship, which started with Dr. Ahammed seeking advice on civil service preparation.
​Dr. Venu highlighted Dr. Ahammed’s inspiring journey from a humble coastal background, overcoming all odds to succeed. He hailed him as a genuine role model, demonstrating a positive ‘Shakeelian lifestyle’ to Malayalees—a man who believes any situation can be changed with a smile.
​Dr. Ahammed’s academic brilliance was evident from the start, excelling at the Mussoorie Academy where he secured the ‘Best Officer Trainee,’ ‘Best Artist,’ and ‘Best Sportsman’ awards in his batch. His distinguished career saw him selected for sensitive and crucial posts, including being a representative to the Tea Board in the Moscow Embassy and serving in the Prime Minister’s Office. As the Private Secretary to the then Union Minister E. Ahamed, he daily met and resolved the issues of hundreds of people.
​Dr. Venu emphasized that Dr. Ahammed’s life passion is serving the common people and the distressed. “His official lifestyle perfectly embodies the saying: live and work for the people and society.”
​His commitment to grassroots service is evident in his career choices. During a period when many high-ranking officials sought to avoid the North East, Dr. Ahammed dedicated his work and life to the region, quickly becoming a beloved officer in Meghalaya. He embraced the culture and life of the Khasi-Garo hills, traveling through tribal villages, learning their language, and voluntarily undertaking numerous responsibilities for them.
​”The one who conquered the shore and the sea with his hard work has now conquered the mountains,” Dr. Venu concluded, referring to Dr. Ahammed’s new role. “He has conquered not by authority, but by love, service, compassion, and empathy.” Dr. Venu wished his “brother” the very best, expressing hope that his tenure as Chief Secretary will be an unforgettable chapter in Meghalaya’s history.
