Sagar (MP): A video that surfaced on social media has landed Public Health Engineering (PHE) Executive Engineer Hemant Kashyap in serious trouble. The officer was seen using abusive and derogatory language about IAS officers and the District Panchayat CEO, prompting swift action from higher authorities.
Suspended Within Hours of Video Going Viral
The Divisional Commissioner of Sagar, Virendra Singh Rawat, suspended Kashyap with immediate effect and attached him to the office of Collector Sagar, pending further disciplinary action.
In the video, Kashyap was heard questioning the stature of IAS officers, saying, “What’s so great about becoming an IAS? What is the worth of an IAS?” He also reportedly made derogatory remarks against the district CEO. This incident sparked immediate administrative action.
According to officials, the incident stems from a review meeting held on June 17, where it was found that 2,742 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) works under the PHE Department were long delayed, leading to water shortages in many villages during the summer.
Following the meeting, Sagar Collector Sandeep GR sent a proposal to the Commissioner citing continued negligence and unsatisfactory progress despite repeated reviews. Shortly after the video surfaced—where Kashyap is seen questioning the “status” of IAS officers and making personal boasts—the Commissioner issued the suspension order.
Viral Video: “What is the worth of an IAS?”
In the video, Kashyap can be heard saying – “Is it a big deal to become an IAS? “What is the worth of an IAS?” “What is the status of an IAS? I have 20 doctors in my house. My son Gopal Kashyap is a singer—his posters are up in Bhopal.”
His tone and words have been widely criticized for being disrespectful toward senior officials.
Kashyap Denies Using Abusive Language
Post suspension, Hemant Kashyap defended himself, saying, “I have neither used abusive words nor spoken indecently to any senior officer or public representative.”
However, the audio clip clearly contains objectionable statements that officials say violate the code of conduct expected from a senior government officer.
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Administrative Lapses and Misconduct
This suspension highlights both administrative negligence and behavioral misconduct. The pending FHTC works had already placed Kashyap under scrutiny, and the video further sealed his fate. The suspension is seen as an attempt by the government to reinforce accountability and maintain decorum in public service.
According to the suspension order issued by the Divisional Commissioner, Virendra Singh Rawat, based on a proposal by Sagar Collector Sandeep GR, the review conducted on June 17 revealed that 2,742 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs) were pending for a long time. This delay caused drinking water problems in many villages during the summer season. Despite continuous monitoring, satisfactory progress was not seen in the execution of the water supply scheme.
