Suspended UP Officer Calls for SIT Probe into Alleged Brahmin Bias
Suspended Provincial Civil Service officer Alankar Agnihotri has stirred controversy with his public resignation and subsequent suspension by the Uttar Pradesh government. The former Bareilly City Magistrate has announced plans to write to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu, demanding the constitution of a Special Investigative Team to examine alleged discrimination against the Brahmin community in the state.
Resignation Over UGC Regulations and Swami Incident
Agrawal's resignation stems from two primary grievances:
- Opposition to new UGC regulations aimed at addressing caste-based discrimination in higher education institutions, which he claims would lead to harassment of general category students
- Protest against alleged manhandling of Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, which he describes as part of an "anti-Brahmin campaign" within the UP government
The Uttar Pradesh government responded by suspending Agnihotri for "indiscipline" and "defying service rules," while initiating an inquiry against him.
Political Aspirations and Future Plans
When questioned about potential political ambitions ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, Agnihotri remained non-committal but emphasized the need to address what he perceives as atrocities against Brahmins. "There is a conspiracy to weaken the community," he stated, adding that he would continue visiting the Bareilly District Magistrate's office until he receives satisfactory responses from the administration.
The suspended officer revealed that Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati has offered support for his decision to "sacrifice my service for Sanatan Dharma" and invited him to join efforts to protect the religious tradition, though Agnihotri has not yet decided on his future course of action.
Growing Support and Broader Implications
Agrawal claims to have received support from various organizations across different states regarding the UGC regulations issue, noting that many felt "the pinch" when the new rules were passed on January 13 but lacked the courage to voice opposition publicly.
This development highlights ongoing tensions surrounding caste dynamics in Uttar Pradesh and raises questions about how administrative decisions intersect with social and political considerations in India's most populous state.
