Bhopal/Bhind: The IAS Association has strongly condemned the alleged misbehavior by BJP MLA Narendra Kushwaha towards Bhind Collector Sanjeev Srivastava, calling the incident “deeply worrying” and urging Chief Secretary Anurag Jain to ensure the dignity and safety of civil servants.
The association’s intervention comes after a viral video surfaced showing a heated altercation between the MLA and the Collector over the issue of fertilizer distribution and alleged sand smuggling. The incident has triggered sharp reactions both from the bureaucracy and the BJP leadership, with the party issuing a stern warning to its legislator.
IAS Association Seeks High-Level Intervention
IAS Association President Manu Srivastava confirmed that the incident has been formally flagged to the Chief Secretary. He stated that the physical and verbal intimidation of officers is a serious concern and not in line with democratic norms.
“This misbehavior is worrying. We have requested intervention at the highest level to ensure officers can discharge their duties without fear or pressure,” Srivastava said.
Viral Incident Sparks Political and Administrative Fallout
The controversy unfolded when MLA Kushwaha, accompanied by supporters, arrived at Collector Sanjeev Srivastava’s residence to raise concerns about the allocation of fertilizers to farmers. During the interaction, the Collector reportedly pointed out the illegal sand transportation allegedly involving the MLA, which led to a verbal clash.
A video of the altercation, showing both parties accusing and confronting each other, quickly spread across social media platforms.
MLA Allegedly Snatches Collector’s Mobile
In a dramatic escalation, MLA Kushwaha allegedly snatched the Collector’s mobile phone while he was recording the incident. The device was reportedly retained for over three hours, before being returned following police intervention.
Despite the gravity of the act, no police complaint has been lodged so far by the Collector.
BJP Leadership Issues Stern Warning to MLA
Reacting swiftly, the BJP State Organization summoned Narendra Kushwaha to Bhopal on Friday, where a meeting was held with State President Hemant Khandelwal, State In-charge Dr. Mahendra Singh, and Organization General Secretary Hitanand Sharma.
In the meeting, Kushwaha was issued a stern warning and told that his actions violated party discipline.
“Your conduct is against the party line and will not be tolerated. Any such behavior in the future will attract serious consequences,” the leadership conveyed to the MLA.
MLA Denies Sand Allegations, Plans Complaint Against Collector
MLA Kushwaha has rejected all allegations related to illegal sand transport, accusing the Collector of targeting him unfairly. He maintains that the fertilizer distribution in Bhind is flawed and discriminatory against small and large farmers alike.
He has announced his intent to file a formal complaint with the Assembly Speaker, accusing the Collector of indiscipline and misbehavior toward an elected representative.
Collector Reaffirms Administrative Neutrality
Collector Sanjeev Srivastava, meanwhile, has reiterated his commitment to following legal protocols and acting on instructions from higher authorities. He confirmed that the administration is cracking down on illegal sand transportation, regardless of political affiliations.
