Himachal ex-servicemen oppose appointment of civilian as state corporation CMD

Brigadier Khushal Thakur (retd), former Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of the Himachal Pradesh Ex-Servicemen Corporation (HIMPESCO), has criticised the state government’s decision to appoint a civilian officer as the CMD. In a media statement, he termed the move a “disgrace” to the defence personnel of Himachal Pradesh, noting that the post has traditionally been held by retired defence officers since the corporation’s inception.

Thakur said the ex-servicemen community across the state has expressed deep disappointment and concern over the appointment of the Deputy Commissioner of Hamirpur to the post. As per existing norms and long-standing expectations, he emphasised, the position should be reserved for a retired officer from the defence services.

Highlighting the purpose of HIMPESCO, Brigadier Thakur explained that the corporation was established to cater to the welfare and service-related needs of ex-servicemen. Appointing a civilian bureaucrat without explanation deviates from established policy and undermines the corporation’s mission, he said.

He further pointed out that the corporation remained without a regular CMD for over three years. During this period, Brigadier Madansheel (retd), Director of the Sainik Welfare Department, efficiently managed the role as an additional charge. His removal, without appointing another veteran as a full-time successor, has triggered unrest among the ex-servicemen.

Thakur also alleged that the delay in a regular appointment and the abrupt civilian posting suggest internal discord within the ruling Congress party and possible misuse of the corporation’s resources. He urged the state government to reconsider its decision and uphold the integrity and original mandate of HIMPESCO by appointing a qualified retired defence officer as CMD.