New CEO Appointed for Noida Authority Amid Controversy

Krishna Karunesh has been appointed as the new CEO of the Noida Authority, taking over from Lokesh M, who was removed following a tragic incident involving the death of a software engineer. This appointment comes amidst ongoing investigations and public protests regarding negligence by local officials. Karunesh, an experienced IAS officer, has held various administrative roles in the past. The police have initiated legal actions against several builders linked to the incident, highlighting the serious implications of this case. Read on to learn more about the developments surrounding this appointment and the ongoing controversy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 24, 2026, 15:55 IST

Appointment of Krishna Karunesh as CEO

Krishna Karunesh, a senior Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Noida Authority. He succeeds Lokesh M, who was removed from his position on January 19 and placed on the waiting list following a controversy related to the death of a 27-year-old software engineer in Sector 150 of Noida.

Originally from Bihar, Karunesh has previously served as the District Magistrate (DM) of Gorakhpur. His administrative experience also includes roles as DM of Hapur and Balrampur, as well as serving as the Chief Development Officer of Ghaziabad and Vice Chairman of the Ghaziabad Development Authority.

Controversy Surrounding the Appointment

Karunesh's appointment comes in the wake of the controversy surrounding the death of Yuvraj Mehta. Mehta died on the night of January 16-17 when his car fell into a water-filled pit near a construction site while returning from work in Gurugram. Local residents protested, accusing officials of negligence and demanding action against those responsible.

As a result, police initiated action and arrested four builders along with Abhay Kumar, the director of MZ Visittown Planners, in connection with the case.

Legal Actions Taken

The police have also registered a First Information Report (FIR) at the Knowledge Park police station under various sections, including 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 106 (causing death by negligence), and 125 (acts endangering life or personal safety) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) along with other relevant sections.