Thiruvananthapuram: The state is gearing up for a major redistribution of administrative powers. The rules in this regard will soon be modified to give more administrative powers to the Chief Minister and departmental secretaries.

Once amended, CM will be able to take decisions on many matters all alone which presently is decided in the cabinet meeting. Also, CM would be able to instruct departmental secretaries directly and not through ministers. The draft report prepared by General Administration Department containing these recommendations is under the consideration of the cabinet sub-committee.

 More power to secretaries

As of now, the minister is in charge of a department. As per new suggestion, the departmental secretary will also have primary responsibility. With this, secretaries would be able to dispose or close files without consulting the concerned minister.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister would be able to summon any file from any department without informing or discussing with ministers.

Introducing third schedule

A new, third schedule will be in force with the new rules, which can be amended as per orders of Chief Minister. At present any changes in schedules are made with the permission of the Governor. With new law in force, departmental secretaries can take decision without consulting ministers.

Also, CM can appoint chairman, director and chief executive director of institutions like PSC and public sector companies. This file need not be presented in cabinet.

The secretaries can close cases referred to PSC and statutory agencies and also take decisions on Class III, IV, deputation appointments and disciplinary actions of employees. Though very important matters are instructed to be referred to the ministers, the same has not been defined.

Cabinet decision review

As per new instruction, departmental secretary and chief secretary are to submit files to Chief Minister directly for reviewing of cabinet decisions. Also, matters of law and order and implementation of court orders will be handled by secretaries. It is also recommended to include ex-officio member post, for appointment of experts, to secretary list.