Officer accused of leaving district without permission and negligence in duty
Published on: November 15, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
Collector Jitendra Yadav has issued a show-cause notice under the Chhattisgarh Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) 1969 to Gopal Ram Sunhare, Senior Mandi Secretary (Superior Grade), Dongargaon, for allegedly leaving the district without permission and failing to attend an important official meeting.
Absence During Crucial Meeting on Illegal Paddy Storage
A meeting regarding unlawful storage and transportation of paddy in the district was held recently. However, the Senior Mandi Secretary did not attend the meeting and was found to be travelling outside the district without prior approval from competent authorities.
This act is considered a serious violation of ESMA guidelines as well as government service conduct standards.
Paddy Procurement Staff Declared as Essential Service
The Home Department of Chhattisgarh has already declared all personnel involved in paddy procurement operations as part of essential services.
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In such a situation, absence or negligence by officers holding key responsibilities can adversely affect procurement operations, the Collector noted.
Directed to Submit Reply Within 24 Hours
In the show-cause notice, Sunhare has been instructed to appear in person and submit a written explanation within 24 hours, clarifying why action should not be taken against him under:
- ESMA (Essential Services Maintenance Act, 1969)
- Chhattisgarh Civil Services Conduct Rules, 1965
The Collector emphasized that no lapse will be tolerated in the ongoing paddy procurement process.



