Sukesh Khajuria seeks judicial redress over “Illegal” appointment of IRCS J&K general secretary, urges CJI’s intervention

RC Sharma
Jammu, June 25: In a bold and principled stand for transparency and institutional integrity, eminent social and health activist Sukesh C. Khajuria has raised strong objections to what he describes as the “unconstitutional and ultra vires” appointment of Mr. Rohit Khajuria as General Secretary of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Jammu & Kashmir UT Branch. Alleging gross procedural violations and breach of the IRCS constitution, Sukesh Khajuria has declared his intention to approach the Chief Justice of India seeking legal intervention.
A respected voice in public health activism for over four decades, Sukesh Khajuria has written detailed representations to the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu (also the National President of IRCS), and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda (Chairman of IRCS). His letters were sent on two significant occasions-World Health Day (April 7, 2025) and World Red Cross Day (May 8, 2025)-highlighting the theme-driven importance of these observances: “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures” and “Keeping Humanity Alive.”
In his representation, Khajuria raised grave concerns about the functioning of the J&K UT Branch of the Red Cross, particularly objecting to the appointment of Mr. Rohit Khajuria, former Vice Chairman of Jammu Development Authority, as General Secretary by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the President of the IRCS J&K UT Branch. The appointment was made via official order No. GS-53/IRCS/23/1661-66 on May 23, 2023, with effect from June 1, 2023, for a period of three years or until further decision by the Managing Committee.
Khajuria maintains that this appointment is legally untenable, as per the Indian Red Cross Society Act, 1920, and the revised rules adopted by the J&K UT Branch on May 27, 2022, which clearly state that only the State Managing Committee (SMC) holds the power to appoint the General Secretary. “The Lt. Governor, even in his capacity as President, has no unilateral authority to make such an appointment without consultation or approval of the SMC,” he stated.
What makes the matter more contentious is the claim that Mr. Rohit Khajuria’s remuneration reflects a staggering 750% hike over that of his predecessor-without any approval from the competent body. “This is not just a procedural lapse but a brazen misuse of authority. The emoluments must be recovered, and accountability fixed,” asserted Sukesh Khajuria.
Expressing deep concern, he said, “No one is above the law. The Indian Red Cross Society must operate with full transparency, legality, and in service to humanity-not as a platform for bureaucratic maneuvering.” He warned that failures to act decisively and lawfully could erode public confidence in such vital institutions.
Khajuria has demanded the immediate convening of the State Managing Committee to initiate a legally valid and transparent appointment of the General Secretary. He also criticized the silence of constitutional and institutional watchdogs, saying, “Those responsible for oversight have become mere spectators. Such systemic indifference comes at a heavy cost to society.”
Founded under the Indian Red Cross Society Act, 1920, the IRCS is a premier humanitarian organization committed to disaster relief, healthcare, and humanitarian service. The J&K UT Branch operates within this national framework, governed by rules that mandate due process, accountability, and constitutional discipline.
Sukesh Khajuria’s unwavering resolve and forthcoming petition to the Chief Justice of India signals a decisive step towards protecting the credibility of institutions and ensuring that governance remains within the ambit of law.