Aagya Khabar
Bardibas

The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has taken strict action regarding the appointment process of Chandeshwar Mahato, Personal Secretary to former Chief Minister of Madhesh Province, Saroj Kumar Yadav. Determining that Mahato did not meet the minimum academic qualifications required for the post, the CIAA has formally written to the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers to recover the salaries, perks, and other state facilities he received during his tenure.

According to sources, around two weeks ago, the CIAA issued an official letter instructing the provincial government to calculate and initiate the recovery of all financial and material benefits obtained by Mahato. He was appointed during Yadav’s tenure as the “Chief Personal Secretary,” a position equivalent to a First Class (Under Secretary level) post in civil service. While this role requires at least a Bachelor’s degree, Mahato had only completed the Proficiency Certificate Level (Intermediate level education).

Following an investigation, the CIAA concluded that Mahato did not meet the minimum educational qualifications mandated for the position. He held the post for nearly 10 months, during which he received a monthly salary of NPR 57,787, and enjoyed benefits such as government vehicle and housing facilities.

Jay Kumar Raut, the Information Officer at the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers, confirmed the receipt of the CIAA’s letter. He stated that further proceedings will be carried out as per the directives received.

However, Mahato has claimed ignorance of the CIAA’s instructions. “I have not yet received any formal letter,” he said in response. “The Chief Personal Secretary is a political appointment,” he added, insisting that he had already submitted a response to the CIAA.

Even if the position is political, laws still require a minimum academic qualification—namely, a Bachelor’s degree—which Mahato does not possess. This shortfall has already been established through official scrutiny.

Earlier, when the CIAA sought information regarding Mahato’s appointment, the Office of the Chief Minister had responded by stating that such appointments fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Chief Minister and thus were beyond the interference of others.

Analysts have commented that this case highlights how political connections have led to the blatant disregard of academic and legal requirements during appointments. “This type of politically motivated appointment—disregarding qualifications—fails both legally and ethically,” one expert said. The pressing question now is whether former Chief Minister Yadav will take responsibility for appointing Mahato against the established standards.

The appointment procedure, the neglect of required qualifications, and the directive to return benefits—all these matters now require clarification and coordination between the Madhesh Province government and the anti-corruption agency. This case is also expected to serve as a precedent in curbing arbitrary political appointments in the future.