UHBVNL Engineer Suspended Amid Viral Remarks and Corruption Scandal
In a significant development, Geetu Ram Tanwar, a superintending engineer with the Uttar Haryana Bijli Vitran Nigam Limited (UHBVNL) in Sonipat, has been suspended with immediate effect. This action comes after a video containing his alleged derogatory remarks against the Jat community went viral across social media platforms, sparking widespread outrage and protests.
Protests and Immediate Administrative Actions
The suspension follows intense pressure from multiple Jat organisations, which condemned the remarks as offensive and divisive. In response to the escalating situation, the managing director of UHBVNL has transferred Tanwar to Panchkula, pending further disciplinary proceedings. This move aims to address the public outcry and ensure a thorough investigation into the matter.
Tanwar's Defense and Context of the Remarks
Amid mounting criticism, Tanwar held a press conference in Karnal on Thursday to defend his position. He claimed that the viral video was selectively edited and taken out of context. According to Tanwar, the statement was made in jest during an informal gathering at the DC camp office, and he asserted that members of the Jat community were present at the time, suggesting it was not intended to be malicious.
Corruption Allegations from Department Officials
The controversy has deepened with serious allegations from several department officials. Executive engineers Ranvir Deshwal and Ashwani Kaushik, along with sub-divisional officers Pradeep Khokhar (Ganaur and City), have filed formal complaints with the chief minister, the managing director, and police commissioner Mamta Singh. Their accusations include:
- Coercion into preparing dubious bills under Tanwar's direction.
- Use of abusive language and threats to implicate staff under the SC/ST Act.
- Derogatory historical references during official meetings, supported by audio and video recordings.
- Pressure to generate an Rs 8.37 crore bill in a previously rejected refund case.
- Hostile actions against a former SDO and intimidation during CGRF proceedings.
- Financial impropriety involving approximately Rs 13 lakh.
Community Demands and Legal Actions
Meanwhile, in Rohtak, the Jat Seva Sangh has submitted a memorandum to DC Sachin Gupta, demanding Tanwar's dismissal and the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against him. This highlights the community's insistence on accountability and legal action beyond administrative measures.
The case underscores broader issues of conduct and integrity within public utilities, as investigations continue to unfold.
