Peon on Duty Drunk: Two Increments Halted

Peon Penalized for Duty Drunkenness

Guna, August 24, 2026 – In a significant disciplinary action, District Magistrate Kishore Kumar Kanyal has ordered the withholding of the next two salary increments for peon Dinesh Kumar Bhil, who is posted at the Collectorate office. This penalty has been imposed with non-cumulative effect due to a serious instance of indiscipline.

The incident occurred on the night of June 14, 2026, when Bhil was on night duty. Around 10:30 PM, he was found arguing with EVM security guard Gaurav Raghuwanshi while under the influence of alcohol. A subsequent breathalyzer test confirmed alcohol consumption, providing clear evidence of misconduct during duty hours.

Departmental Action and Defense Opportunity

Following the incident, Dinesh Kumar Bhil was issued a charge sheet under Rule 16 of the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1966. The charge sheet detailed the accusations, initiating a departmental inquiry. He was granted a formal period of 10 days to present his defense and prove his innocence, adhering to the principles of a fair hearing.

However, despite receiving the charge sheet, Dinesh Kumar Bhil failed to submit any response within the stipulated timeframe. This inaction was treated as an admission of the charges, necessitating further proceedings in the case. Under the rules, government employees have the right to present their side during departmental inquiries, and failure to exercise this right can be construed as self-incrimination.

Penalty Determination

The order clearly states that Dinesh Kumar Bhil violated Sub-rules (1), (2), and (3) of Rule 3, and Rule 23 of the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services Conduct Rules, 1965. Rule 3 outlines general conduct principles for government employees, including discipline, integrity, and impartiality, while Rule 23 specifically addresses guidelines regarding the consumption of intoxicating substances.

Taking a stern view of these violations, the Collector and District Magistrate invoked Rule 10 of the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1966. As a minor penalty, he has ordered the withholding of Bhil's next two salary increments on a non-cumulative basis. This means the penalty will only affect future increments and not those already granted.

This action serves as a clear message that consuming intoxicating substances while on duty is unacceptable and carries severe consequences. Such measures are crucial for maintaining order within government departments and reinforcing a culture of discipline among employees.