The Governor also initiated the process for his removal — making a reference to the Supreme Court for an inquiry into the charges against him.

Under Section 17 of the RTI Act, the Governor can remove the CIC for misbehaviour or incapacity after the Supreme Court, in an inquiry made on his reference, has found the charges true. Pending the inquiry, his entry in office can be barred.

A cryptic note, issued by the Chief Secretary’s office, said there were complaints that Khan had adopted a style of work that was seen as violation of Right To Information (RTI) Act, 2005. He also interfered with the functioning of other officials of the commission.

Khan could not be reached for comment. The Governor’s action comes on the recommendations of the government. Khan, a former judge of the Allahabad High Court, was appointed by the Mulayam Singh government.

The relationship between the government and the CIC has been far from cordial. He had often made stern observations about the government and summoned senior functionaries like the chief secretary and the cabinet secretary.