Madhya Pradesh CM's Controversial Remarks on Secretaries Spark Political Row with Congress

The Chief Minister emphasized that Sarpanches are the true implementers of government initiatives at the grassroots level.

Bhopal:

A significant political controversy has emerged in Madhya Pradesh following Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's statements at the state-level Sarpanch conference held at Jamburi Maidan, which has provoked strong criticism from the Congress party. State Congress President Jitu Patwari has called for an immediate public apology from the Chief Minister for what he described as demeaning government employees and undermining the essence of Gram Swaraj.

While addressing thousands of Sarpanches and Panchayat representatives, Chief Minister Yadav delivered an impassioned speech highlighting his administration's dedication to enhancing the Panchayati Raj system. However, one particular comment generated considerable backlash: "Koi Sachiv agar kaam nahi karega to saale ko hata denge, Inki kya aukaat" (If a Secretary fails to perform, we'll dismiss him).

The Chief Minister further stated that the Sarpanch serves as the actual executor of government programs in local communities, emphasizing that empowering Panchayats remains a key focus for his administration. "When we meet with a Sarpanch, both the Secretary and Employment Assistant must be present. The authority you (Sarpanches) possess exceeds even those in higher positions. The capabilities of a Sarpanch are unmatched by others," he remarked.

During the event, Yadav announced that Panchayats will be authorized to undertake development projects valued up to Rs 25 lakh, with each Panchayat Representative receiving Rs 50,000 for community development initiatives.

He also sanctioned the construction of 2,472 Atal Panchayat Bhavans, 1,037 community buildings, 106 Janpad Panchayat offices, and 5 Zila Panchayat buildings throughout the state.

The Chief Minister praised Sarpanches as the "foundation of rural development," asserting that the transformation of Madhya Pradesh's villages depends on their leadership.

In a vigorous response, State Congress President Jitu Patwari accused the Chief Minister of "insulting government officials" and compromising the principles of Gram Swaraj. "I appreciate the Chief Minister and Minister Prahlad Patel for attending the Sarpanch conference, but today the Chief Minister disrespected the secretaries and employment assistants, undermining the very concept of Gram Swaraj," Patwari stated.

He further alleged corruption within rural development administration, claiming the ministry operates under a '50 percent commission' system. "The Chief Minister should feel remorse for disrespecting secretaries and employment assistants instead of safeguarding Sarpanchs' rights. He has publicly insulted me five times. This reveals his attitude," Patwari added, encouraging secretaries and employment assistants to protest against these remarks.

This controversy emerges as the government actively promotes rural governance reforms and development initiatives ahead of the upcoming Panchayat elections. While BJP leaders dismissed Congress criticisms as "political posturing," the opposition views this incident as evidence of arrogance and disregard for administrative structures.