Chandigarh, Mar 2 (UNI) Punjab Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal, who assumed office today, replaced the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP).

Mr Ramesh Inder Singh, a 1972 batch IAS officer was today appointed Punjab Chief Secretary, replacing Mr K R Lakhpal.

Mr Singh is currently on deputation with the Centre and attended Mr Badal's oath taking ceremony.

Mr Singh had served as Principal Secretary to Mr Badal, when he was Chief Minister from 1997 to 2002.

Mr N P S Aulakh, a 1973 batch IPS officer will be the new DGP in the place of Mr R S Gill.

Mr Aulakh is currently the Special DGP (north west frontier) with the Border Security Force (BSF).

Mr Gill had taken over as DGP during the assembly election campaign, after the Election Commission (EC) had removed the then DGP S S Virk following certain complaints against him.

The third important appointment made by the SAD-BJP government was that of Mr H S Mattewal as state Adocate General. Mr Mattewal had held this post during Mr Badal's third term as Chief Minister.

In the next two or three days a few more important changes are likely in the state administration, including appointment of the CM's Principal Secretary and Assistant Principal Secretary.

UNI