In a shocking incident that has triggered alarm within Uttar Pradesh’s administrative circles, Azamgarh District Magistrate (DM) Ravindra Kumar stands accused of assaulting Arun Sachdeva, an Executive Engineer (ExEn) from the Irrigation Department, using a stick.
The alleged episode underscores a dramatic escalation in the relationship between high-ranking officials and has sparked demands for a thorough investigation.
The Allegation: Assault at the Camp Office
According to the complaint lodged by Sachdeva, on the evening of June 13, 2025, DM Ravindra Kumar summoned him to the camp office, located in a flood-affected area under the DM’s jurisdiction. Upon arrival:
- Sachdeva was allegedly required to hand over his mobile phone.
- The DM reportedly launched into an insult, saying:
“You think you’re a hero? There’s no bigger hero than me.” - He then allegedly proceeded to assault the engineer with several blows from a stick. Witnesses say the injured officer was ordered to leave the office immediately.
Salary Withheld & Administrative Tensions
The complaint further details that earlier, on May 27, Sachdeva’s salary had been withheld for allegedly arriving late at a review meeting in Gorakhpur, related to a High Court case.
This incident is reported to have soured the relationship between the two officials and may have contributed to the DM’s alleged aggressive outburst.
Aftermath: Emotional and Professional Impact
Following the incident, Sachdeva has reportedly been left in a state of severe mental and physical distress. He has refused further postings within Azamgarh and appealed for a transfer, stating that he can no longer function under such a hostile environment.
His letter has been forwarded not only to departmental superiors and local police authorities but also to the Uttar Pradesh Engineers Association demanding relief and action.
Calls for Investigation: Pressure from Civil Groups
The Azad Adhikar Sena, a local rights group, has entered the controversy. Its national head, Amitabh Thakur, has written to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, urging a high-level probe led by a senior administrative official.
They have stressed that if the allegations are validated, not only should DM Ravindra Kumar be suspended, but an FIR must be registered.
DM’s Defense: Politics Over Performance?
When approached, DM Ravindra Kumar dismissed the allegations, claiming a narrative of political rivalry behind the accusations. He stated:
“Some people are not focused on work; they are doing politics.”
He emphasized that the district’s irrigation ranking had improved and defense of proper implementation of governmental plans. However, he refrained from direct comments regarding the alleged physical assault.
Broader Implications: Administrative Discipline & Conduct
This incident is symptomatic of deeper issues within the administrative framework:
- Leadership boundaries: A DM—who is meant to enforce discipline—being accused of physical violence challenges established norms.
- Employee escalation: That an engineer resorted to writing formal letters indicates a collapse of internal grievance mechanisms.
- Morale & work environment: High-pressure contexts like flood management and performance reviews must be handled with decorum, not aggression.
What Happens Next?
- Investigation Launch: Likely under UP’s Additional Chief Secretary or Chief Secretary, possibly recommending FIR and action as per norms.
- Potential suspension: Pending inquiry, DM Kumar may be temporarily relieved of duty.
- Transfer consideration: Sachdeva’s transfer request may proceed with priority to ensure his protection and well-being.
- Grievance redressal reforms: This case may trigger policy reconsideration in bureaucratic dispute management.
The extraordinary accusation against a sitting DM for using physical force against a subordinate is unprecedented and alarming. Resolution depends heavily on transparent investigation and fair enforcement of administrative accountability.
It also serves as a reminder: public service must not only be effective—it must also embody integrity and respect.
The coming days will reveal whether Uttar Pradesh’s administration responds with due diligence—or if deeper cultural reforms are still needed.
