Congress Writes to Governor Over IAS Officer's Resignation in UP

Congress Urges Governor to Protect Official Independence

Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President Ajay Rai has written to the state's Hon'ble Governor, demanding the protection of the respect and independent functioning of capable and honest administrative officers. He also called for this issue to be raised with the central government.

The letter highlights the deeply concerning resignation from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) by a talented officer from the 2013 batch of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, after approximately 13 years of service. This officer, who holds prestigious degrees from IIT Delhi and IIM Bengaluru, had reportedly forgone lucrative foreign job offers to serve the nation.

Concerns Raised Over Officer's Departure

The Congress state president noted in his letter that this officer had undertaken several significant public welfare initiatives during her tenure as District Magistrate in various districts of the state. The Uttar Pradesh Congress has expressed serious concern over her sudden decision to leave the service.

According to the letter, the officer, who had proven her competence in her previous roles, was transferred from field responsibilities to the position of Special Secretary in the Revenue Department. It was after this transfer that she made the decision to resign. Although she has not publicly clarified the reason for her resignation, the state Congress views this as part of an increasing trend of such incidents since the current BJP government came to power in 2017.

Pattern of Resignations Cited

The party referenced previous instances of 13 other IAS officers from the state resigning or taking voluntary retirement, describing the situation as a 'matter for serious introspection'.

Sensitivity to Public Grievances Questioned

Mr. Rai also pointed out that the Chief Minister himself had recently questioned the arrangements in Gorakhpur. Amidst this, a viral video purportedly featuring the Gorakhpur MP allegedly stating, “Gorakhpur looks like Spain to us; what can we do if you are blind?” This statement was characterized as a lack of sensitivity towards those raising issues of public concern.

The situation was deemed unfortunate, as the Chief Minister was reportedly seen laughing at the ceremony where this remark was made.

Call for Upholding Constitutional Values

The Congress state president urged the Governor to immediately raise this concerning situation with the central government. He believes that if senior officers who work according to the constitution and rules are unable to function with respect commensurate with their abilities and experience, the political pressure faced by junior officers and staff will be even more severe.

He emphasized that an IAS officer serves the constitution and the public, not any political party. The protection of the integrity and respect of this institution was deemed extremely essential for the strengthening of democracy.