“Dog watching over the skin?” Jharkhand officials continue protests against Chatra MP’s remarks
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK Chatra, March 8: A major controversy has erupted in Chatra after BJP MP Kalicharan Singh allegedly used…
Kali Charan Singh
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Chatra, March 8: A major controversy has erupted in Chatra after BJP MP Kalicharan Singh allegedly used derogatory language against government officials, prompting the Jharkhand Administrative Service Association (JHASA) District Unit to launch a protest. The dispute stems from an ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the installation of solar lights in Chatra, funded by the District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT).
In a complaint letter, JHASA accused the MP of making offensive remarks, including the phrase “the protection of the skin has been handed over to the dog” (चमड़े की रखवाली कुत्ते को सौंपी गई है), while criticizing a joint investigation team comprising the Additional Collector, Municipal Council Officer, and Executive Engineer of the Electricity Supply Division. The team is probing financial mismanagement in the municipal council’s use of DMFT funds for solar light installations.
The MP is also accused of calling former Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC) Pawan Kumar Mandal “corrupt, degraded, and immoral,” further escalating tensions between local officials and political representatives.
JHASA’s Protest and Demands
Amid growing outrage, JHASA’s Chatra District Unit recently convened an emergency meeting, led by DDC Amarendra Singh, where officials strongly condemned the MP’s remarks. As a mark of protest against what they described as the MP’s “negative and insulting” behaviour toward senior officers, JHASA members wore black badges on February 27. The association has also warned of a phased agitation if the MP does not issue a formal apology.
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JHASA Chatra unit secretary Jahur Alam emphasized that such language is unbecoming of a person holding a constitutional position like that of a Lok Sabha Member. “Our protests are continuing, though the MP has denied using such language. But his remarks are there in black and white,” he added.
MP Withdraws Letter Amid Backlash
Meanwhile, the MP is said to have withdrawn his letter, which contained the “derogatory remarks” sent to the Government of India.
Similar Complaint Against Congress MLA
Notably, just a few days ago, the JHASA also lodged a similar complaint with the Speaker against Congress MLA Suresh Baitha.
Tensions Rise Between Bureaucracy and Politicians
This controversy has further strained relations between the bureaucracy and political representatives in Jharkhand, raising concerns about the working dynamics between elected officials and administrative officers.
