In a firm stance against perceived pressure tactics, Datia Collector Swapnil Wankhede on Wednesday delivered a strong reprimand to a group of patwaris who had gathered at the collectorate to protest the suspension of some of their colleagues. The collector made it unequivocally clear that attempts to influence the administration with political backing would not be tolerated.
A Question of Numbers and Method
Addressing the gathering over a loudspeaker, Collector Wankhede immediately questioned the need for a large assembly of 60 to 70 officials at the collectorate. He asserted that if there were legitimate grievances, a smaller delegation of three or four representatives would have been a more appropriate channel for discussion. The collector emphasized that repeatedly convening in such large numbers was not the right approach and amounted to an attempt to exert undue pressure on the administration.
Focus on Public Service, Not Protests
Wankhede redirected the focus of the discussion towards the core duties of a public servant. He referenced critical administrative responsibilities, including the implementation of the PM Kisan Yojana and fertilizer distribution, stressing that officials are expected to concentrate on these essential services rather than organizing protests. "The job of a patwari is not to pressure the collector," he stated firmly. He advised that any objections to disciplinary actions like suspensions should be raised individually through the proper established channels.
Underlining his commitment, the collector said, "I don't work for money. We all work for the public." He explained that administrative action is typically a last resort taken when public grievances are consistently ignored. Wankhede cited examples where citizens approach the administration over delays in receiving pensions or other welfare benefits, highlighting the need for officials to be sensitive and responsive to such public concerns.
Patwaris Raise Specific Grievance
During the interaction, the protesting patwaris brought up a specific case concerning a suspended colleague from Indergarh. They claimed that after his suspension, the official was directed by a tehsildar to submit a medical certificate from Datia, even though he had received treatment in Gwalior. This point underscored the procedural challenges and frustrations cited by the group.
The confrontation in Datia highlights the ongoing tensions between field-level revenue officials and district administrations over disciplinary matters. Collector Wankhede's unequivocal message reinforces a zero-tolerance policy towards collective bargaining perceived as intimidation, while simultaneously calling for a renewed dedication to public service delivery as the paramount duty of all government officials.
