New Delhi: Alok Tripathi, who headed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team that conducted the Gyanvapi mosque survey last year, has retired from his position as Additional Director General (Archaeology) after turning 60 in August. Despite his retirement, Tripathi continues to serve in the agency. He has been deputed as ADG (Research and Training – Capacity Building) for three months, subject to approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
Tripathi, a history professor at Assam University, Silchar, joined the ASI on deputation in 2021. He received four extensions in the ADG (Archaeology) post until August 31, when he reached the retirement age of 60. The retirement age in Assam University, where he remains an employee, is 65.
The ACC has approved the appointment of T J Alone as the new ADG (Archaeology), taking over the role vacated by Tripathi. However, Tripathi’s new deputation raises questions since recruitment rules set the maximum eligible age for this post at 56.
Officials said the position was kept occupied to avoid vacancy after the selected candidate from the earlier process failed to join. The Ministry of Culture issued the extension order, but it still requires ACC ratification.
Tripathi also heads the revived Underwater Archaeology Wing, which has carried out surveys in Dwarka and Bet Dwarka. He played a central role in the ASI’s 839-page Gyanvapi report and was part of the survey team on Bhojshala in Madhya Pradesh.
