The Kerala Administrative Tribunal (KAT) has refused to stay a government order that recently removed K.J. Reena from the post of Director of Health Services (DHS). This followed her plea, challenging her removal and further challenging the appointment of another person in the post. The government submitted that a new director was appointed, considering the urgent requirements of the State’s health sector. The Additional Director of Health Services (Family Welfare), V. Meenakshy, had been given the full additional charge of the post of DHS, pending regular arrangements, a week ago.The government order issued on Friday (June 11, 2026) said that Dr. Reena had completed three years in service as the DHS and that the selection process for the appointment of a regular DHS was under the consideration of the government. It added that Dr. Reena had taken 15 days of leave when the State was battling different contagious diseases. Published - June 17, 2026 08:47 pm IST