The Kerala government on Sunday suspended IAS officer N Prasanth, just hours before the counting of votes for the Kerala Assembly election, intensifying the already charged political atmosphere in the state.
Prasanth, who had earlier been under suspension for nearly one-and-a-half years, was served a fresh suspension order late on Saturday night. The action was reportedly taken on the grounds that he had been speaking against the government in public forums, including television debates and social media platforms, particularly in the context of the ongoing Assembly elections.
Reacting sharply to the development, Prasanth alleged that the order issued to him was identical to the one served earlier to fellow IAS officer B Ashok. “Not even a word has changed from Ashok’s suspension order. They just want us to keep our mouths shut. No one can curtail freedom of speech,” he said.
Citing service rules, Prasanth referred to provisions that, according to him, do not mandate prior permission for speaking to the media. He also stated that his engagement on public platforms predates his entry into the civil services. “I have been active on social media even prior to joining the service. During the election period, it may have triggered insecurity, as it could affect voting patterns. It is unfortunate that in Kerala we have to fight for freedom of speech to safeguard political interests,” he added.
Apart from participating in debates, Prasanth runs a YouTube channel titled “Brew with Bro,” which he started during the COVID-19 period. The channel has recently featured podcast-style content, including a discussion with B Ashok that drew considerable attention. Prasanth is popularly known as “Collector Bro,” a nickname he earned during his tenure as Kozhikode district collector between 2015 and 2017, when he used social media for public outreach.
The development follows closely on the heels of the suspension of Ashok, who currently serves as Principal Secretary of the Sainik Welfare Department and Vice-Chancellor of Kerala Agricultural University. The order against him was issued earlier this week by the Chief Secretary, citing violations of conduct rules.
According to the government, Ashok had engaged with media outlets and expressed views critical of government policies without prior authorisation, in violation of service norms. The order specifically referred to provisions restricting serving officers from making public statements that could compromise administrative neutrality.
Ashok, however, has contested the suspension, calling it “illegal” and lacking legal validity. He argued that the order failed to specify the statements that allegedly breached service rules and questioned its timing, noting that it was issued while the state is under a caretaker government. He further alleged that the action was retaliatory and carried out without a formal inquiry, though he indicated that any legal challenge would be considered after the formation of a new government.
The twin suspensions have added a fresh layer of controversy ahead of the counting of votes, scheduled for Monday. The results will determine whether the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) retains power, the United Democratic Front (UDF) stages a comeback, or the BJP makes significant inroads in the state.
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