Dr. Shalini Rajneesh (IAS: 1989: KN) has been appointed as the Chief Secretary of Karnataka, succeeding her husband, Dr. Rajneesh Goel (IAS: 1986: KN). This marks a rare instance in the state’s administrative history where a spouse has succeeded their partner in the highest bureaucratic position.
Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, who previously served as Additional Chief Secretary to the Government-cum-Development Commissioner, brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished career to her new role. Her appointment follows the tenure of Dr. Rajneesh Goel, who served as Chief Secretary prior to her.
This is the third time in Karnataka’s history that a husband and wife have both held the position of Chief Secretary. The first instance was with BK Bhattacharya and Teresa Bhattacharya (Retd IAS: 1965: KN), who served in 2000 and from July 2, 2001, to March 30, 2002, respectively. The second instance involved Malati Das (Retd IAS: 1970: KN), who succeeded her husband, BK Das, in 2006.
