The Tamil Nadu government has appointed revenue administration commissioner J Radhakrishnan (IAS:1992:TN) as new health secretary transferring Beela Rajesh (IAS:1997:TN) to the commercial taxes and registration department after the state’s data on death toll figures came under the scanner.

The move also comes at a time when a multi-disciplinary team appointed by the Centre to study the state’s low mortality rate, among other parameters, is expected to submit its report to the health ministry after visiting Tamil Nadu’s seven worst affected districts, including Chennai earlier this month.

Radhakrishnan was appointed as Special Nodal Officer for Greater Chennai Corporation to coordinate coronavirus related issues with the civic body chief on May 1. The 53-year old officer, a veterinary doctor was Rajesh’s predecessor.

In wake of growing Criticism of TN government over failed Chennai Covid 19 control, these postings are being seen as something controversial. If some well-placed sources are to be believed two more officers, Chennai Municipal Corporation Commissioner G Prakash (IAS:2000:TN) and Chennai Police Commissioner A K Vishwanathan (IPS:1990:TN), may also be held responsible for COVID-19 management and may be transferred as well.