Bihar Revenue Officers' Strike Escalates Over Promotion Blockade
In a significant development, over 1,000 Circle Officers (COs) and Revenue Officers (ROs) in Bihar have launched a strike since February 2, 2026, creating a standoff with the state government. The protest centers on the government's decision to establish a new cadre at the sub-division level, which effectively denies these officers promotion to the coveted position of Deputy Collector (Land Reforms). This role was historically the highest achievable rank for Bihar Revenue Service (BRS) officers, making the move a major point of contention.
Government's New Cadre Sparks Outrage
The state cabinet approved the creation of the Sub-Divisional Revenue Officer (SRO) post on January 29, 2026, a non-magisterial position that alters the traditional promotion pathway. Under the new rules, BRS officials can now advance to SRO but are barred from becoming Deputy Collector (Land Reforms), a change that has sparked widespread dissatisfaction among the cadre. Many COs argue that this decision will demotivate officers and potentially lead to increased corruption, as they view the SRO role as perfunctory and less prestigious.
Impact on Land Digitisation and Government Response
The ongoing strike has severely impacted the statewide land survey and digitisation of land records, a critical initiative for modernising Bihar's administrative systems. In response, the government has taken a hardline stance, instructing striking officials to return their official vehicles and laptops. Additionally, authorities have enforced a "no work, no pay" policy, threatening to withhold salaries for the days officers remain absent. Bihar, with its 534 blocks each managed by a CO and RO, faces operational disruptions as tensions escalate.
Root Causes and Official Statements
The friction between BRS officers and the government began during online land survey hearings, where Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue and Land Reforms Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha publicly reprimanded several COs over corruption allegations. The immediate trigger for the strike, however, was the cabinet's approval of the SRO cadre. Anand Kumar, president of the Bihar Revenue Service Association (BIRSA), expressed disappointment in a representation, noting that the decision contradicts judicial orders and has greatly demotivated the BRS cadre.
In a statement to the media, a CO highlighted the challenges faced by officers, working 16-18 hours daily on digitisation tasks, and argued for service rule protections. They emphasized that BRS officers, with over a decade of experience, deserve promotion opportunities comparable to Bihar Administrative Service officers. Minister Sinha, however, defended the government's actions, stating that a committee was promised to address service matters and that the strike would not hinder digitisation efforts, describing the measures as "strong medicine" necessary for resolution.
