TELANGANA: IAS Amrapali Returns to Telangana Cadre
Tribunal Ruling
On June 24, 2025, the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) granted relief to IAS officer Amrapali Kata, overturning her reassignment to the Andhra Pradesh cadre. The tribunal ordered her reallocation to Telangana, effective immediately.
Background of Transfer
Kata, a 2010-batch IAS officer, was redeployed to Andhra Pradesh in October 2024 by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). She had been serving as the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Commissioner in Telangana prior to the transfer.
Legal Challenge
Challenging the DoPT’s directive, Kata filed a petition with the CAT, seeking retention in the Telangana cadre. Her plea cited procedural discrepancies in the cadre reallocation process.
CAT’s Decision
The CAT bench, after reviewing her petition, ruled in her favor, nullifying the DoPT’s earlier order. The tribunal’s directive mandates her immediate return to the Telangana cadre.
Implications
The ruling highlights ongoing tensions in cadre allocation between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, a contentious issue since the states’ bifurcation. Kata’s return may influence similar cases pending before the CAT.
Official Response
Neither the DoPT nor the Andhra Pradesh government has issued a statement on the ruling. The Telangana government is expected to facilitate Kata’s reintegration into its administrative framework.