Chhattisgarh executive engineer suspended over abusive audio clip

RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh government has suspended Shashank Singh, Executive Engineer of the Hasdeo Canal Water Management Division in Janjgir, with immediate effect following an inquiry into an abusive audio clip.

The action was taken under Rule 9(1)(a) of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1966, after a prima facie case of misconduct was established against him.

The controversy began after an audio clip of a conversation between Singh and his office vehicle driver, Shashikant Sahu, went viral on social media and was also published in regional newspapers. The state government subsequently ordered an inquiry into the matter, which was conducted by the Additional District Magistrate of Janjgir-Champa.

Statements from both parties were recorded during the investigation. The inquiry report confirmed that Singh had used extremely abusive and objectionable language during the phone conversation with his subordinate.

The report also stated that he made inappropriate remarks against senior district administrative officers, which, according to the government, tarnished the public image of the administration.

During the suspension period, Singh’s headquarters will be shifted to the office of the Chief Engineer at Shivnath Bhawan in Nava Raipur. He will be entitled to a subsistence allowance during this period.

The official order was issued by Under Secretary Ravindra Kumar Medhekar by order and in the name of the Governor of Chhattisgarh.