In a significant administrative move, the Noida Authority has removed its Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Mahendra Prasad from his post and attached him to the Lucknow headquarters. The decision has created a stir in administrative circles and is being widely viewed as a strict disciplinary action aimed at reinforcing accountability and official protocol.
Officials said the action was taken in connection with the controversy surrounding the Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) 2026 calendar, which allegedly featured photographs without proper approval.
Controversy Triggered by 2026 Metro Calendar
The issue surfaced a few days ago after NMRC’s 2026 calendar was released. Allegations emerged that the calendar carried a photograph of Noida Authority CEO Lokesh M without formal authorisation. At the same time, Mahendra Prasad’s photograph was also prominently featured in the publication.
The matter quickly escalated within administrative circles, as the publication was seen as a serious breach of official decorum rather than a minor procedural lapse.
CEO Took Immediate Action
Taking note of the seriousness of the issue, CEO Lokesh M acted swiftly and removed Mahendra Prasad from his role as Executive Director at NMRC. Following this, the administration further tightened its stance and officially removed him from the Noida Authority as well, attaching him to the Lucknow headquarters.
Sources said the move was meant to send a clear message that violations related to protocol, permissions, and institutional discipline will not be tolerated.
Questions Raised Over Official Protocol
The incident has raised uncomfortable questions within the Noida administration. Traditionally, government calendars feature the photograph of the Chief Minister. In this case, the Chief Minister’s image was reportedly missing, while senior officials’ photographs appeared prominently.
Officials maintain that the issue goes beyond design or printing errors and touches upon government etiquette, approval procedures, accountability, and institutional dignity. Senior-level displeasure was reportedly conveyed, leading to the decisive action against Mahendra Prasad.
