Central Vigilance Commission imposed ‘major penalty’ proceeding on the Managing Director of Indian Rail Finance Corporation (IRFC) Santosh Kumar Patnayak (IRAS:1986) nearly two weeks back leading to termination of his services immediately. Following a charge-sheet he was removed from service without any enquiry. Insiders say that Patnayak was yet to be confirmed and hence enquiry clause did not apply to him. Following his termination Additional Member (Budget), Railway Board, Vijay Kumar was given the additional charge of the top job which he had once failed to grab.     

 

It may be mentioned that Patnayak was in February 2017 appointed MD, IRFC, for a period of five years. However, his stint came to abrupt tragic end.

  

Sources said that the tragic story of Patnaik began after a supervisor/inspector level officer at IRFC approached CVC and submitted a set of documents alleging financial irregularities.

 

The charges framed against him was based on documents and proofs. Those who are aware of these developments say that it was not adequate and big enough to make a case for removal. Normally, in such cases only ‘minor penalty’ is imposed followed by a departmental enquiry. Reportedly, few top officials in the concerned board was of the view that issuing ‘minor penalty’ could be appropriate as disciplinary action. But reportedly, top authorities at vigilance wing found it enough ground to initiate removal.

Having quit the service (IRAS), Patnayak is left with no job. His brilliant career ended abruptly.