Hyderabad: Many Mandal Revenue Officers (MROs), also known as Tahsildars, who were moved to new districts for the 2023 Assembly elections, are still waiting to return to their original posts. Out of over 300 affected officers, fewer than 100 have gone back, while the rest are still in limbo.
This is the first time in Telangana that officials expected to return quickly after the elections but have not. In the past, both in Telangana and when it was part of Andhra Pradesh, repatriations happened promptly after elections. A source mentioned that during YSR’s era in Andhra Pradesh, all officials were swiftly returned to their original positions. However, this time, despite many requests, the government has only acted for a few.
Some officers who got transferred back to desirable mandals now want to stay in their new locations, complicating the situation for others who wish to return. For example, a Tahsildar seeks a prominent mandal like Bhadrachalam from a smaller one, and many prefer Khammam over lesser-known nearby mandals. In southern Telangana, an officer has requested a move to Nagarkurnool from a smaller mandal. An official noted that about 40 to 50 officers prefer to stay in these larger mandals, especially those in Rangareddy and Medchal.
The government is not eager to transfer Tahsildars back to their native districts, focusing instead on vacancies. Some officials managed to stay in local collectorates during the elections and have since secured favorable posts. This has led to feelings of unfairness among those who had to relocate. While some enjoy staying in their home areas, many endure challenging conditions far from home. The government is not ready for further transfers at this time.
Alarmingly, some MROs have retired while still waiting for their transfers. One officer, despite applying due to health issues, did not receive approval from senior officials. This officer, who was stationed about 150 km from the State Capital and receiving treatment after surgery, requested to stay in their previously assigned district in an appeal to the Chief Commissioner of Land Administration (CCLA).
