Uttar Pradesh Officer Suspended Over Alleged Cattle Shelter Negligence, Unauthorised Visit

A Gram Panchayat Officer posted in Uttar Pradesh’s Baniyakheda development block has been suspended over alleged negligence in making arrangements to shift protected cattle to a safe place during waterlogging at a gaushala, as well as for allegedly visiting a gaushala in another development block without permission.

Following the approval of District Magistrate Ankit Khandelwal, District Panchayati Raj Officer Greesh Kumar suspended Mahesh Singh with immediate effect. Singh was posted as Gram Panchayat Officer in the Baniyakheda development block.

The action relates to the Gaushala, or cow shelter, located in Gram Panchayat Nehta. When waterlogging developed at the shelter, Singh was accused of failing to follow the government’s instructions and make the required arrangements for shifting the protected cattle elsewhere.

The departmental order described the alleged failure as negligence in the discharge of government duties. The order also cited another allegation against Singh. Despite being posted in the Baniyakheda development block, he allegedly visited the gaushala located in Gram Panchayat Kala of the Gunnour development block without authorisation.

According to the report by Rajat Malhotra, Veterinary Officer Dr. Patel had clearly told Singh not to visit the gaushala in question. Despite this instruction, Singh allegedly went there. The department treated the matter seriously while deciding to take action.

The order lists allegations of failing to properly discharge his official and government responsibilities, gross negligence and indiscipline against the Gram Panchayat Officer. The allegations were considered contrary to the provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Government Servants’ Conduct Rules, 1999. On this basis, the suspension action was taken.

During the suspension period, Mahesh Singh has been attached to the Bahjoi development block. He will receive subsistence allowance according to the rules. For receiving the allowance, he will have to submit a certificate stating that he is not engaged in any other service, scheme, trade, vocation or business.

The department has also ordered a disciplinary and departmental inquiry into the matter. The Assistant Development Officer (Panchayat), Sambhal, has been appointed as the inquiry officer.

The position on the allegations will be clarified during the inquiry. Further action will be taken after the inquiry establishes the status of the charges.