Chief Secretary A Jayathilak (IAS: 1991: KL) issued the suspension order under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969, citing violations by engaging with print, visual, electronic and social media platforms without prior government approval.

The order stated that in March and April 2026, Ashok engaged in a series of public statements and communications concerning government policies and functioning.

Calling the suspension a revenge move, Ashok said the order was legally weak and against rules. “This vendetta reflects the government’s attitude that not all facts should reach the public. I don’t think this order will survive a legal challenge — just like the ones before it,” he told reporters.