Lucknow/Auraiya: In a significant move underscoring its zero-tolerance stance on corruption, the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has suspended PCS officer Rakesh Kumar Singh, who was serving as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Auraiya, following serious bribery allegations captured on CCTV.
According to an official notification issued by Special Secretary (Appointments) Annapurna Garg on Thursday (August 21), Rakesh Kumar has been relieved from his post and attached to the Revenue Council during the period of suspension. The government has also handed over the investigation to the Divisional Commissioner of Kanpur.
CCTV Footage Triggers Action
The disciplinary action follows the surfacing of a viral video dated August 19, which allegedly shows an unidentified individual placing an envelope into the drawer of the SDM’s desk, while the officer remains seated and does not object. After a brief period, Rakesh Kumar is seen retrieving the envelope and putting it into his pocket.
The video quickly circulated on social media, raising widespread public concern and prompting the District Magistrate of Auraiya to conduct a preliminary probe. On August 20, the DM submitted a detailed report to the state government recommending immediate action.
Violation of Government’s Zero-Tolerance Policy
The official suspension order highlights that the officer’s conduct has tarnished the image of the government administration and is in direct violation of the zero-tolerance policy on corruption upheld by the Uttar Pradesh government.
Sources confirm that the officer did not resist or report the incident when the envelope was placed in his drawer, which was interpreted as an indication of complicity or acceptance of an illegal gratification.
What the CCTV Video Reveals
The footage reportedly shows:
- Rakesh Kumar seated at his desk.
- Three individuals in front of him, believed to be complainants.
- As two individuals leave, the third moves closer and opens the SDM’s drawer himself, placing an envelope inside.
- The SDM remains passive throughout the exchange.
- After the visitor exits, the SDM retrieves the envelope and places it in his pocket.
Investigation Ongoing
With the case now under the Divisional Commissioner of Kanpur, a comprehensive inquiry will be conducted to determine the intent and nature of the envelope, as well as identify the individuals involved. The government has indicated that further disciplinary or legal action may follow based on the findings.
