The Centre has appointed Dharmendra, a senior IAS officer of the 1989-batch from the AGMUT cadre, as the new Chief Secretary of Delhi. Prior to this, Dharmendra was serving as the Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh. His transfer to the Delhi government comes just ahead of the February assembly elections, making him one of the most senior officers in the AGMUT cadre to assume this key role.

According to an order issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, Dharmendra’s transfer is effective from September 1, 2024, or from the date he assumes office, whichever is later. The appointment is significant as it positions Dharmendra to play a pivotal role in the administration during the upcoming elections.

Dharmendra succeeds Naresh Kumar, a 1987-batch IAS officer, whose tenure ended on August 31 after three extensions. The appointment was made on the same day as Naresh Kumar’s term expired, amidst speculation of a further extension.