Another IAS officer has stirred controversy with remarks that appear to promote caste-based thinking, sparking debate and criticism across Madhya Pradesh. Meenakshi Singh, a 2013 batch IAS officer, is under scrutiny after a video went viral of her speaking at an event organized by AJAKS (Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Officers and Employees Association) in Bhopal on November 23.
In the video, Singh stated that caste identity and solidarity are crucial in contemporary society, arguing that discrimination often occurs based on surnames. She encouraged members of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities to recognize their identity, support each other, and engage collectively. Singh also emphasized the importance of making children aware of their caste identity, viewing the family as the primary unit of social organization. She urged members of the Adivasi community to openly approach senior officers, even without specific grievances, to foster better social participation and understanding.
Singh's comments have drawn sharp reactions, particularly from upper-caste organizations. Pushpendra Mishra, President of the Akhil Bharatiya Brahmin Samaj, criticized Singh's remarks, cautioning against a caste-based mindset among officers, which he believes poses a threat to administrative neutrality. He called upon Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav to take strict action against officers exhibiting caste bias, warning of potential protests if no action is taken.
This controversy follows closely on the heels of similar remarks made by another IAS officer, Santosh Kumar Verma, at the same AJAKS conference. Verma's comments regarding reservations and the Brahmin community had triggered widespread protests, leading to his removal from the Agriculture Department. Verma purportedly stated that reservations should continue until a Brahmin agrees to marry his daughter to Verma's son. He later apologized for his remarks, stating that he did not intend to insult any community or religion and that his words were distorted.
The back-to-back controversies involving senior IAS officers have ignited a heated public discourse in Madhya Pradesh, raising concerns about the conduct of civil servants and the potential for deepening social divisions within administrative circles. Critics argue that such statements can undermine the impartiality and fairness expected of public officials, potentially leading to biased decision-making and unequal treatment. Others maintain that it is important to acknowledge and address the realities of caste-based discrimination and to encourage solidarity within marginalized communities.
The state government has yet to issue an official statement regarding Meenakshi Singh's remarks. However, the increasing scrutiny of IAS officers' statements on caste-related issues suggests a growing sensitivity to the matter and a potential for further action. The unfolding situation continues to fuel debate about the role of caste in contemporary Indian society and the responsibilities of civil servants in promoting social harmony and equality.
