Auraiya, UP: In a swift administrative action, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Rakesh Kumar Singh has been removed from his post in Auraiya’s Sadar tehsil after a CCTV video surfaced showing him allegedly accepting an envelope from a mandi secretary. The footage, which quickly went viral on social media, has raised serious concerns over the integrity and conduct of the official.
What the Viral Video Shows
The video, reportedly leaked by a staff member from the SDM’s office, shows:
A mandi secretary entering the SDM’s office and placing an envelope inside the desk drawer.
Once the secretary leaves, SDM Rakesh Kumar Singh is seen retrieving the envelope and placing it in his trouser pocket.
The visuals have triggered widespread discussion and backlash in the administrative circles and among the public.
Swift Action by District Administration
Reacting to the video, District Magistrate Dr Indramani Tripathi, a promotee IAS officer of 2014 batch, ordered immediate removal of Rakesh Kumar Singh from his position as SDM, and assigned ADM Avinash Chandra Maurya to conduct a comprehensive investigation.
“A video related to the SDM is circulating on social media. Under the direction of the District Magistrate, I have been assigned to investigate the matter thoroughly. All aspects are being examined,” said ADM Avinash Maurya, speaking to the media.
Rakesh Kumar Singh has been transferred to the district headquarters in Kakor, and Ajay Anand has been appointed as the new SDM Sadar.
A Controversial Tenure
Sources indicate that Singh had often drawn criticism for his unorthodox working style. He was known to:
- Hold court sessions on holidays
- Issue orders in unusual circumstances
- Be frequently mired in local controversies
This latest incident, however, appears to have crossed a line, prompting decisive administrative intervention.
Staff Involvement Under Scanner
It is reported that a staff member from the SDM office was responsible for leaking the CCTV footage to the public. The motivation behind the leak is currently unknown, but the matter has added another layer to the ongoing probe.
The administration is also expected to verify:
- The authenticity and continuity of the footage
- The intent behind the envelope exchange
- The background of the official and the secretary involved
ADM Maurya has assured that a detailed investigation report will be submitted to the District Magistrate soon.
