Govt shunts its chief spokesperson, post made rotational

In a late evening development, the chief spokesperson of the Indian government, Neelam Kapur, has been transferred to the Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP). The post has also been made rotational.

In a late evening development, the chief spokesperson of the Indian government, Neelam Kapur, has been transferred to the Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP). The post has also been made rotational.

Kapur is being replaced by Frank Noronha, who was holding the post of director general, DFP.

“The new spokesperson has already assumed charge and the orders are in place. The post from now on will be rotational and will be held by any of the heads of the media units of the government,” a top government source, requesting anonymity, told HT.

The chief spokesperson’s post, designated as Principal Director General (Media and Communications), is the crucial interface between the government and the media, and the official is also privy to Union Cabinet meetings where even secretaries are not normally in attendance.

The spokesperson’s post is of the special secretary level while that of the DG, DFP, is of the additional secretary level, indicating that Kapur’s transfer may have downgraded her position.

Her transfer was only expected as Kapur was perceived in government and media circles to be close to the UPA dispensation.