Defence ministry probes alleged discrepancy in CG appointment

The defence ministry is conducting an inquiry into allegations of possible discrepancies in the appointment of a top Coast Guard official.

A recent promotion board for an additional director general-level posting, the second highest in the Indian Coast Guard, has led to controversy after allegations were made that the annual ratings of a senior official had been misrepresented, leading to a downgrade on the merit list.

Sources said that after representations were made to senior authorities, an inquiry was being conducted to match records available with the defence ministry. Officials said that any follow-up action would be taken based on its findings.


The Coast Guard, which is headed by a director general-level officer, has three ADGs tasked with operational matters. While in the past, Navy officers had been posted to senior ranks, in recent years, Coast Guard officers are making it to the top posts.

The appointment to the ADG rank is conducted by a special board, which includes the Coast Guard DG, the defence secretary and the special secretary posted to the defence ministry. The internal processes, including drawing up of personnel records, are conducted by the Coast Guard itself.

Sources said following the allegations and subsequent inquiry, the promotion process was kept on hold till the matter was sorted out. The inquiry could involve looking into records held by the defence ministry as well. Response to a query on the matter to the ministry has not been received yet.