Mohammed Shafi Pandit IAS Dies; “Role Model For The Youth From The Valley,” Says Jairam Ramesh

Mohammed Shafi Pandit, a highly respected former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from Jammu and Kashmir, has passed away. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh expressed his sorrow over Pandit’s death, describing him as a close friend and an inspiration to many.

“My good friend of many years, Mohammed Shafi Pandit, has just passed away,” Ramesh said. He praised Pandit’s service in both Jammu and Kashmir and at the Centre, stating, “He was a 1969-batch IAS officer who occupied important positions with distinction, both in J&K and at the Centre.”

Pandit had an illustrious career, serving in various prominent roles, including as Commissioner/Secretary to the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. He also served as Chairman of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission, where his tenure was marked by fairness and transparency. After retiring, Pandit remained active in public causes, advocating for governance reforms, education, and human rights.

Ramesh highlighted Pandit’s gentle nature, saying, “Soft-spoken and extremely gentle by nature, he epitomised the glorious composite heritage of J&K.” He further emphasised Pandit’s lasting influence, adding, “He was a role model for youth from the Valley to join the civil services.”