Lucknow, August 20, 2025 – Just 18 days after taking charge as Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Secretary, Shashi Prakash Goyal has taken an abrupt leave, stirring murmurs in the state’s administrative circles. Goyal, a 1989-batch IAS officer, assumed the role on July 31, 2025, succeeding Manoj Kumar Singh, who retired. His sudden absence has sparked curiosity and speculation about its impact on governance.
According to an order from the Department of Appointment and Personnel, Goyal has gone to Delhi for health reasons, specifically citing a heart-related issue. He is expected to remain there for seven days to recover. During this period, Deepak Kumar, a 1990-batch IAS officer and Additional Chief Secretary (Finance and Education), has been assigned the responsibilities of Chief Secretary, along with Goyal’s other portfolios, including Infrastructure and Industrial Development Commissioner. This temporary arrangement, announced on August 19, 2025, has added to the buzz in Lucknow’s bureaucratic corridors.
Goyal, who has played a pivotal role in the Chief Minister’s Office for the past eight years, is known for his efficient work style and strategic coordination. His close association with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and contributions to major projects, such as the Jewar International Airport, had raised expectations for his tenure as Chief Secretary. Tasked with driving Uttar Pradesh’s goals of zero tolerance for corruption and boosting industrial growth, Goyal’s reputation as a sharp, disciplined officer made him a key figure in the state’s governance. His sudden leave, however, comes at a critical time, with the Ground Breaking Ceremony (GBC 5) slated for October-November 2025 and preparations for the 2027 assembly elections underway.
Deepak Kumar, known for his steady leadership, is expected to maintain continuity, but questions linger about Goyal’s return and its implications for Uttar Pradesh’s ambitious plans, including its trillion-dollar economy vision. For now, officials are focused on ensuring smooth governance while awaiting Goyal’s recovery. The state’s bureaucracy remains on edge, with Lok Bhawan abuzz over what this brief hiatus might mean for the future. Will Goyal resume his role with renewed vigor, or will this signal broader changes? Only time will tell.
