Milinda's 'cabinet rank' credentials declined by India as an ambassador

India has reportedly declined to accept certain provisions of the 'Cabinet rank' status of Milinda Moragoda, who had recently assumed duties in New Delhi, 14 months after he was appointed to the post.

The present government appointed Moragoda as a High Commissioner enjoying “Cabinet rank,”, and he is the first diplomat receiving such an appointment.

India’s External Affairs Ministry has said an agreement (or a set of credentials) where Moragoda was referred to as High Commissioner holding “Cabinet rank,” cannot be forwarded to the President’s Office and asked for a fresh set of documents with no reference to “Cabinet rank” status.

It is the Indian President who receives credentials of envoys to India.

Accordingly, Moragoda has yet to hand over his credentials.