Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
The race for the post of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has narrowed to three names, with former bureaucrats Yogeshwar Ram Mishra and Rajesh Pandey emerging as prominent contenders, according to government sources.
The interview process for the post has been completed and a panel of three names is being prepared for submission to the temple trust, which will take the final decision on the appointment.
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Mishra is considered one of the leading contenders because of his administrative experience, particularly his work during the development of the Kashi Corridor. Pandey, a former police officer, is also in contention and is known for his policing career in Uttar Pradesh, including his involvement in high-profile encounters.
Sources said officials who rose to the IAS or IPS through the Provincial Civil Services (PCS) route could have an edge over direct-recruit officers. The CEO of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust is also a PCS officer, while several temple trusts in Uttar Pradesh have government representatives from the PCS cadre.
The trust is looking for an experienced, honest and competent administrator with an understanding of temple management. Both Mishra and Pandey are believed to fit these criteria, sources said.
Several retired armed forces officers were also among the 16 shortlisted candidates. Their presence means a retired military officer could still emerge as the final choice.
No woman has so far emerged as a prominent contender among the 16 shortlisted candidates. However, the eligibility criteria for the CEO post did not specify any gender restriction.
The selection process began with 5,585 applications. Of these, 3,877 candidates submitted detailed CVs, while 1,580 applications and presentations underwent detailed evaluation. The process was subsequently narrowed to 111 online interactions, then to 16 shortlisted candidates, and finally to a three-member panel.
The final appointment will be made by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
