Students Claim Cop Action For Calling IAS Officer Tina Dabi 'Reel Star', She Responds

A controversy has erupted in Rajasthan's Barmer district following a student protest against a fee hike at Multanmal Bhikchand Chhajed Women's College. The situation escalated when some students referred to District Collector and IAS officer Tina Dabi as a "reel star," sparking a heated exchange and prompting police action that has drawn criticism.

The students, including members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), were demonstrating against an increase in college fees when the "reel star" remark was made. According to the protesting students, the comment was intended as sarcasm, reflecting on the perceived focus on social media presence by leaders and administrators rather than addressing local issues. They claim that their role models are historical figures like Ahilyabai Holkar and Rani Lakshmibai, not contemporary officials.

Following the remark, police detained two student leaders, citing security concerns. Female students alleged that the detentions were a direct consequence of the "reel star" comment, and not related to the fee hike protest. This led to a sit-in protest by several women students at the Kotwali police station, demanding the release of the detained leaders. The students were later released without any formal charges being filed.

The incident quickly gained traction on social media, with many users criticizing the police action. Some viewed the detention as an overreaction and an attempt to suppress dissent. One X user's post criticizing the incident garnered significant attention, further fueling the online debate. Some social media users alleged that Dabi was being targeted due to her Dalit caste.

District Collector Tina Dabi has responded to the controversy, dismissing claims that the detentions were a result of the "reel star" comment. She clarified that the police action was taken to maintain law and order after officials were allegedly subjected to misbehavior during the protest. Dabi has characterized the incident as being misrepresented and unnecessarily blown out of proportion. She stated that the issue was being used by some students seeking publicity.

Dabi, who is an IAS officer of the Rajasthan cadre and currently serving as the Barmer collector, has often found herself in the center of controversies due to her popularity on social media. In 2015, Dabi achieved first rank in the Indian civil service exam. In 2025, she spearheaded Barmer district in receiving the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Award for rainwater harvesting and community driven participation.

The controversy highlights the tensions that can arise between student activism, administrative actions, and social media perceptions. While students assert their right to protest and express their opinions, authorities emphasize the need to maintain order and prevent disruptions. The incident also underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by public figures, particularly those with a strong social media presence, and the potential for even minor remarks to escalate into major controversies.