Thiruvananthapuram: In an unexpected turn of events, a mass resignation has hit the personal staff of Health Minister K Muraleedharan. Additional Private Secretary Sreelal and Assistant Private Secretary Govindaraj have tendered their resignations. Although an excessive workload is the official reason provided by the duo, insider reports suggest that severe friction among top officials in the Minister's office is the actual cause behind the move.

Allegations have emerged that the Health Minister’s Private Secretary Dr D Sunil has been behaving high-handedly with the staff. It is also learnt that a discord with another Additional Private Secretary contributed to the resignations. Sources close to those who resigned indicated that the internal power struggles and discrimination had created an untenable working environment within the office.

The government has now issued an official order relieving both officials of their duties.