UP GST Deputy Commissioner Steps Down Citing Moral Duty Over Allegations Against Leadership
In a significant development from Ayodhya, Prashant Kumar Singh, a deputy commissioner serving with the Uttar Pradesh Goods and Services Tax (GST) department, has officially resigned from his position. The officer cited profound moral reasons for his decision, explicitly expressing his unwavering support for Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his resignation letter.
Allegations Against CM and PM Prompt Resignation
Following the submission of his resignation, Singh revealed to the news agency ANI that he was deeply affected by what he described as unfounded allegations made by Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand against the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and the Prime Minister. "In favour of the government and to oppose Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand, I have resigned. For the last two days, I was deeply disturbed by the allegations against our CM and PM," he stated emphatically.
Singh elaborated that his decision stemmed from a strong sense of moral duty and loyalty to the government. "I draw my salary from the government. When I saw my CM and PM being insulted, I felt it was my duty to take a stand," he explained, highlighting the personal conviction behind his action. He confirmed that he had forwarded his resignation papers directly to the Governor's office, bypassing usual bureaucratic channels.
Mental Stress and Future Plans for Social Work
The deputy commissioner added that he had been experiencing considerable mental stress over the past few days, leading him to resign only after careful and thorough deliberation. Once his resignation is formally accepted by the authorities, Singh announced his intention to devote himself fully to social work. He plans to utilize his own resources and expertise to contribute positively to society, marking a new chapter in his career focused on public service beyond governmental roles.
Context of Recent Resignations and Broader Issues
Singh's resignation comes amidst a backdrop of similar actions by other officials. Just a day prior, Alankar Agnihotri, the city magistrate of Bareilly, also quit his post. In his resignation letter addressed to Governor Anandiben Patel and Bareilly District Magistrate Avinash Singh, Agnihotri called for the withdrawal of the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026.
While these regulations aim to prevent caste-based discrimination in colleges through mandatory committees, helplines, and monitoring systems for SC, ST, and OBC students, Agnihotri alleged that they could potentially lead to "atrocities against Brahmins" and trigger social unrest. He also referenced the alleged denial of permission to Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand to take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the Magh Mela, suggesting a decline in faith, freedom of expression, and republican values.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from the Governor's office regarding the acceptance of Prashant Kumar Singh's resignation. The situation continues to unfold, reflecting broader tensions and debates within the state's administrative and social spheres.
