The State Government has already given NoC, a requisite requirement for central deputation, Sandhu making speculation rife over the next CS of the state. On the other hand, this has left people guessing over the Centre’s next move to appoint him to a Secretary-rank post at a time when many 1990-officers are awaiting their turn.

It’s worth noticing that ahead of the Uttarakhand Assembly elections, Sandhu the then NHAI Chairman repatriated to the cadre state as Chief Secretary. After the BJP was re-elected in the state, he gets NoC from the state government for the central deputation. It indicates that the Centre wants the officer back but in what role is worth discussing.

Placement of a Secretary-rank officer at the Centre 12 months ahead of retirement would be an indication that it could be a position either with a fixed term or it would be having avenues for post-retirement engagement on a contract basis; a model which has been a norm under the present regime.     

Defence Secretary: A section of insiders believe that Sandhu may be drafted as Defence Secretary as the post is falling vacant in October this year vice Ajay Kumar (IAS:1985:KL). The Defence Secretary post having a fixed two-year term appears viable and the possibility of him as the next Defence Secretary cannot be ruled out.  

Home Secretary: Some others feel that he is the next Home Secretary vice Ajay Bhalla (IAS:1984:AM) who is set to complete his extended term in the third week of August. Sandhu’s professional attributes are lauded for efficient monitoring, including others, which was lauded during his term as NHAI Chairman. Further, Punjab and Delhi on dispensation’s priority may bring optics and may boost the electorates’ confidence in case Sandhu becomes HS. Another section of whos who feels that Ajay Bhalla might get a further extension which will put speculation to rest.

Secretary PMO or Adviser PMO: Another section of officials believe that having earned the confidence and loyalty of the New Delhi establishment, Sandhu may be inducted into PMO; maybe for monitoring Mission Gati-Shakti which has been PM’s aspiration. Sandhu’s successful tenure, coupled with efficient monitoring, as NHAI Chairman is cited as his strength that may go in his favour for his next assignment.

None of the above: As 'unpredictability' and the 'element of surprise' have been the hallmark of the New Delhi dispensation, a large section of bureaucrats believes that all these are just speculation yet it’s certain that Sandhu is on his way to New Delhi leaving a task for the Uttarakhand Government to search Sandhu’s successor as Chief Secretary.