In Historic Transition, IAS Sarada Muraleedharan Succeeds Husband V Venu as Kerala Chief Secretary

A remarkable moment in Kerala’s administrative history has been captured in a single photograph, marking a significant milestone. This image showcases not just two distinguished officers but a husband and wife duo in a unique role reversal. For the first time ever in Kerala, an IAS wife has succeeded her IAS husband in the position of Chief Secretary.

The historic transition took place when Sarada Muraleedharan, a 1990 batch IAS officer, took over the Chief Secretary role from her husband, V Venu, who retired on August 31. Muraleedharan’s appointment was confirmed by the Kerala government on August 21.

Venu, who had been serving as Chief Secretary under the Pinarayi Vijayan government, was succeeded by his wife, who previously held the position of Additional Chief Secretary. During the farewell ceremony for Venu, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlighted the significance of this unprecedented event, noting that it is the first instance in Kerala’s history where the Chief Secretary role has been transitioned from a husband to his wife.

Why is This Picture Special?

This picture captures a remarkable moment in Kerala’s bureaucratic history: a husband handing over his official responsibilities to his wife. The image shows IAS officers Dr V Venu and Sarada Muraleedharan seated together at a table, with Venu smiling as he transfers his duties to his wife. This moment is particularly significant because it marks the first time in Kerala’s administrative history that an IAS couple has consecutively held the Chief Secretary position without any break.

Who is This Couple?

Dr V Venu and Sarada Muraleedharan are distinguished IAS officers from the 1990 batch. Sarada Muraleedharan is renowned for her leadership of the Kudumbashree Mission, Kerala’s ambitious poverty alleviation program, from 2006 to 2012. She has also spearheaded various initiatives focused on women empowerment. Dr Venu, originally from Kozhikode, began his career as the District Collector of Thrissur. He completed his schooling at Kendriya Vidyalaya Kozhikode and earned an MBBS degree from Malabar Christian College.