JD Seelam – A journey from bureaucrat to politician

Jun 17, 2013, 20:08 IST

Jesudasu Seelam, popularly known as J D Seelam, is a Rajya Sabha member and former IAS, IPS officer. A native of Pusaluru in Guntur district, Seelam is known for his close association with Mahatma Gandhi family.

He is continuing in the Congress party as a person of confidant. When he was former IAS and IPS, Seelam worked in the Indian Audit and Accounts. He served as a private secretary to Railways and Social Welfare department. He played a crucial role in the constituencies’ reorganization process and drew the attention of the Congress high command.

Born on August 13, 1953 at Pusaluru village in Pedanandipadu mandal of Guntur district, Seelam is the only son among three siblings of Annapoornamma and Abraham. He did his B.Sc and M.Sc in Andhra University and later selected to IAS.

He held key posts during 1984-99 in various departments in the State. As a Rajya Sabha member, Seelam served in the Ministries of Social Justice and empowerment committees. He also served in the committees of evolving computers and water resources. He held various positions besides a member of ST committee, Business Advisory Committee, Khadi and Rural industries Board and Social welfare commissioner in Karnataka. He also worked in the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1983 and later served in various positions as IAS Officer between 1984 and 1999. He was inducted into the Union Cabinet as Minister of State for Finance.