Controversy Erupts in ISRO Leadership: Somnath vs. Shivan
Introduction:
A significant controversy has emerged in the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), featuring a clash between current ISRO Chairman Somnath and former ISRO Chief Shivan. The allegations made by Somnath have ignited a debate, shedding light on their differences regarding ISRO's leadership, particularly during the Chandrayaan-2 mission. Let's delve into the details of this intriguing ISRO saga.The Key Figures: Somnath and Shivan
Somnath, hailing from Kerala, currently holds the esteemed position of the ISRO Chairman. He achieved a remarkable feat under his leadership by successfully landing the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft's lander on the Moon's South Pole, setting a remarkable record. These achievements put Indian space research in the global spotlight.
ISRO's Leadership Transition:
Somnath took over as ISRO Chief just last year, succeeding K. Sivan, who hails from Tamil Nadu. However, it was under Shivan's leadership that the Chandrayaan-2 mission faced a minor setback, which is central to the current controversy.The Unveiling of "Lions Who Drank Moonlight":
Somnath, at this juncture, authored his autobiography in Malayalam, titled 'Lions Who Drank Moonlight.' While parts of the book have been released, it has come to light that Somnath made claims in the Kerala media regarding Shivan's possible interference in his career advancements.Allegations and Controversy:
In his autobiography, Somnath asserted that in 2018, when A.S. Kiran Kumar retired from the post of ISRO Chairman, both Shivan and his names were nominated for the position. Typically, the appointment of a member to the Space Commission is viewed as a precursor to becoming ISRO Chairman. However, in a surprising turn of events, Shivan was appointed as Chairman, and he continued to lead the Vikram Sarabhai Space Research Centre. When pressed for clarification on the directorship, Shivan remained tight-lipped. Eventually, Somnath was appointed as director, but only after an intervention by the former director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center, B.N. Suresh.Moreover, Somnath accused Shivan of attempting to extend his tenure as ISRO President beyond the usual three years. Shivan allegedly brought in U.R. Rao, the Director of the Space Center, to dissuade Somnath from aspiring to the position of ISRO Chief. Additionally, Shivan's absence from the group that welcomed the Prime Minister during the Chandrayaan-3 landing and his alleged oversight of launching Chandrayaan-2 without adequate tests and inspections were subjects of criticism.
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