Inside ONGC: Transfer Policy Sparks Nepotism Row, Officials Say It’s About Building for the Future

Corporate Update | Report by Z.A. Ansari: New Delhi: As ONGC prepares for significant leadership transitions, a subtle upheaval is unfolding within the hallowed corridors of India’s oil and gas conglomerate. With the current Director (Exploration), Chief Director (Production), and Director (Production) all scheduled to conclude their tenures by next year, the company has implemented a comprehensive transfer mechanism. The objective? To establish a leadership pipeline that is indigenous, resilient, and prepared for the future.

Internal criticism has emerged, with accusations of “state nepotism” specifically targeting the Director (Exploration). The allegation: that the transfer process prioritises favouritism over merit.

In an exclusive statement, a senior ONGC insider vehemently refuted these claims. “This initiative is not driven by the promotion of individuals. It is focused on the construction of a system. Our primary focus is on strengthening ONGC’s leadership from within, thereby reducing our reliance on external entities for pivotal roles in the future,” the official asserted. “While it is possible for a junior individual to progress, a senior individual may not. This is inherent in the nature of change. However, transfers are an integral aspect of a dynamic and evolving organisation.”

The official further emphasised that if such an approach had been adopted earlier, there might not have been a necessity for such a mechanism in the present day. “This initiative is solely driven by capability. The industry can be assured that we believe this mechanism will become a defining feature of ONGC’s legacy.”