A senior Bihar IAS officer, Mihir Kumar Singh (1993-batch), has found himself at the centre of controversy over allegations of using his official position to promote his late father’s literary works. Singh, who served as the Additional Chief Secretary of the Panchayati Raj Department from May 2022 to October 2024, is accused of including 36 books authored by his father, Padma Shri awardee Dr. Jagdish Prasad Singh, in a government list for library acquisitions.
The Bihar government had initiated a project to establish libraries in 8,053 village panchayats and community halls, for which books by renowned authors were to be procured. A committee formed by the Panchayati Raj Department approved a list of approximately 1,600 titles, including the works of celebrated Hindi authors like Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, Nagarjun, Ramvriksh Benipuri, Phanishwar Nath Renu, and India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. Among them were 36 books written by Dr. Jagdish Prasad Singh, a respected academic and author.
The inclusion of Singh’s father’s books has sparked criticism and calls for investigation. Panchayati Raj Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta assured that the matter would be thoroughly probed. “We will examine the issue and take necessary action if any irregularities are identified,” he stated.
Adding to the scrutiny, Janata Dal (United) spokesperson Neeraj Kumar emphasised the importance of accountability, saying, “The government must ensure that no one in a significant position misuses their authority.”
Defending his actions, Mihir Kumar Singh argued that the selection process was conducted fairly by the committee, which found no grounds to exclude his father’s works. “My father has authored over 40 books and was recognised with the Padma Shri in 2013. The committee approved the list based on merit,” Singh stated.
However, the Panchayati Raj Department has paused the procurement process and directed a review of the selected titles. As the investigation unfolds, the incident has raised broader questions about ethical conduct in public service and the fine line between personal and professional responsibilities.
