IAS Santosh Verma: Decoding Officer Removal Process & Protections

• IAS Santosh Verma is under scrutiny for controversial remarks on reservation and the Brahmin community, leading to a show-cause notice and demands for his removal.
• Removing an IAS officer is a complex process governed by Article 311 of the Constitution and the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969.
• The removal process includes a charge sheet, departmental inquiry, mandatory consultation with the UPSC, and a final dismissal order issued by the President.
• Officers are guaranteed the right to defend themselves and can appeal dismissal orders to the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), High Court, and Supreme Court.
• Exceptions to a full inquiry include criminal conviction, national security concerns, or when an inquiry is deemed practically impossible by the disciplinary authority.

Why It Matters: Removing an IAS officer involves a complex, legally protected process.