Bihar Deputy CM Issues Stern Warning Against Threats to Government Officers
In a firm response to escalating intimidation tactics, Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, who also oversees the Revenue and Land Reforms Department, has issued a clear and uncompromising warning to those threatening or obstructing government officials. The message is direct: any interference with administrative work will be met with severe legal consequences, and those responsible will face imprisonment.
Sinha emphasized that the state government will not tolerate any disruption of law and order or the administrative framework. He described the act of threatening honest officers who have returned to their posts as both cowardly and criminal. The government has vowed to identify such individuals and take strict action against them under the Indian Justice Code and the Information Technology Act.
Zero Tolerance for Intimidation
The Deputy Chief Minister made it unequivocally clear that there is no place in Bihar for those attempting to disrupt the revenue system through fear and coercion. He assured that culprits will not be spared under any circumstances and that their imprisonment is guaranteed. Sinha also stressed the collective responsibility to provide safety and dignity to officers who have chosen to resume their duties in support of the government’s initiatives.
Addressing the ongoing protest, Sinha noted that those who resigned to contest elections are now leading the agitation. He stated that their actions will also be scrutinized, and the government is closely monitoring the situation. Individuals facing serious allegations will not be able to escape accountability.
Threats via Social Media and Messaging Apps
The department has received complaints that some officers participating in the strike are intimidating their working colleagues through WhatsApp calls. Additionally, they are reportedly using social media platforms to name and shame fellow officers, creating significant mental pressure. The department views these actions as a deliberate attempt to obstruct government work and has cautioned those involved to reconsider their approach.
Principal Secretary of the department, C.K. Anil, has issued a directive to all District Magistrates, making it clear that no association leader or office-bearer who threatens or hinders officers returning to work will be shown any leniency. He has instructed that First Information Reports (FIRs) be registered immediately in such cases.
Legal Framework for Action
The Principal Secretary has provided specific legal guidance for handling these offenses. The directives mandate that cases be registered under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, including Sections 132, 351, 352, 126, 127, 349, 350, and 195. Furthermore, action will also be ensured under Section 67 of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which addresses the publication or transmission of obscene material in electronic form, among other provisions.
The legal instructions are designed to equip district administrations with the necessary tools to respond swiftly and effectively to any instances of intimidation or obstruction.
Officers Returning to Work Amid Growing Pressure
In the wake of the government’s stringent stance, the pressure on striking officers is reportedly mounting. According to departmental sources, twenty-four officers have already resumed their duties. In an effort to maintain seamless operations, additional charges have been assigned to non-striking officers to ensure that work continues without interruption.
The department has directed all District Magistrates to act with urgency in such matters and to submit detailed reports on the actions taken to the departmental headquarters. This move underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining a disciplined and functional administrative structure, ensuring that the delivery of public services remains unaffected by any form of protest or coercion.
The administration’s proactive approach signals a strong message that the state machinery will not bow to pressure tactics, and the rule of law will prevail in all circumstances.
