THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, April 10: Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi has strongly criticised the alleged “arrogant and indecorous” behaviour of Jharkhand’s Road Construction Department Principal Secretary Sunil Kumar towards BJP MLA from Jamua, Manju Kumari.
Calling the conduct “dictatorial,” Marandi said some officials in the state appear to be treating elected representatives as subordinates rather than public representatives.
Seating Row Triggers Controversy
The controversy stems from a recent meeting between the MLA and the senior official, where the seating arrangement drew attention for the visible distance maintained.
While such arrangements were commonly introduced in government offices during the COVID-19 pandemic as a safety measure, the practice continues in many offices even today. The issue has now sparked debate, especially when applied to meetings with MLAs and MPs, who hold higher protocol status.
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‘Not Just a Photo, But a Message’
Reacting to the incident on X, Marandi said the image reflects more than just a meeting. “This is not merely a photograph, but proof of arrogance and the condition of the system,” he said.
He questioned whether an elected MLA was being treated like a petitioner. “Is this the respect given to the people’s mandate?” he asked.
‘Insult to Democratic Values’
Marandi alleged that such behaviour shows a growing disconnect between bureaucracy and elected representatives. He termed the reported conduct towards a woman MLA as “shameful” and an insult to democracy.
He also remarked that if officials do not respect MLAs, it raises concerns about how common citizens are treated.
Seeks CM’s Intervention
The BJP leader urged Chief Minister Hemant Soren to take cognisance of the issue and act against such “high-handed” officials.
“The Chief Minister must make them understand that they are public servants, not rulers,” Marandi said, warning that inaction would send the wrong message about governance in the state.
