Uttar Pradesh’s Urban Development and Energy Minister, A.K. Sharma, adopted a firm stance during a public grievance hearing on Thursday after receiving a serious complaint of bribery in the power department, triggering immediate disciplinary action against the accused officials.
Following the hearing, a lineman was dismissed from service, a Junior Engineer (JE) was suspended, and explanations were sought from a Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) and an Executive Engineer. The minister reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, stating that harassment of citizens would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
During the public hearing held at his official residence in Lucknow, the minister took cognisance of a complaint alleging corruption in the electricity department. The complainant, Mohammad Yousuf, a resident of Sadaat village in Amroha district, alleged that bribes were demanded in the name of providing an electricity connection and that work was deliberately delayed when the demand was not met.
Taking the matter seriously, Minister Sharma immediately contacted the Managing Director of Paschimanchal Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited, Ravish Gupta, and issued clear instructions for strict action against the guilty officials and employees. Acting swiftly on these directions, the department initiated action late into the night.
As part of the disciplinary measures, Junior Engineer Rajeev Singh was suspended with immediate effect, while lineman Abbas was terminated from service. Additionally, explanations were sought from SDO Ritesh Prasad and Executive Engineer Rahul Nigam under Rule 10, with directions to initiate departmental proceedings if their responses are found unsatisfactory.
Reacting to the action taken, Minister A.K. Sharma said the energy department exists to serve the public, not to extort money from them. He made it clear that any officer or employee found misusing their position to harass citizens would face strict action without fear or favour.
The minister further emphasized that the government’s policy against corruption is one of absolute zero tolerance. He assured that every complaint received through public hearings would be addressed promptly and decisively. Issuing a warning to officials, he said those acting against the intent of the government would not be spared under any circumstances, and such action would continue in the future as well.
