The Election Commission of India has appointed A.S.P.S. Ravi Prakash, a 2011-batch IAS officer, as the new Chief Electoral Officer of Puducherry. Chosen from a list of three IAS officers recommended by the Puducherry government, Prakash’s appointment was confirmed through a notification issued by the Commission. The ECI directed the Puducherry government to publish the notification in the state gazette and ensure that Prakash assumes office promptly.
In a letter to the Puducherry Chief Secretary, the ECI emphasized the need for immediate compliance with the appointment of A.S.P.S. Ravi Prakash as the Chief Electoral Officer. The notification regarding Prakash’s appointment is to be republished in the Puducherry State Gazette, with a copy sent to the Commission for their records. The ECI also requested a compliance report within a week to confirm Prakash’s assumption of office.
Following the recent formation of a National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in Puducherry led by N. Rangasamy, A.S.P.S. Ravi Prakash’s appointment as the Chief Electoral Officer marks a significant administrative change. Rangasamy, who was sworn in as Chief Minister for a record fifth term, further solidifies his political standing in the Union Territory. Notably, the swearing-in ceremony took place at the Puducherry Lok Bhavan, with the Lieutenant Governor administering the oath of office to Rangasamy and the newly appointed ministers.
