Raipur/Gariaband: In a major administrative crackdown that has sent ripples through Chhattisgarh’s bureaucracy, the Gariaband district administration has taken swift action following a viral video of an “obscene” dance program.
Gariaband Collector Bhagwan Singh Uike has removed Deobhog Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Tulsidas Markam from his post, citing “indiscipline” and “negligence.” Additionally, three policemen seen in the video have been suspended by the Superintendent of Police.
The Viral Video: What Happened?
The controversy erupted after a video surfaced from Urmal village under the Deobhog police station limits. The footage, reportedly from an orchestra program held between January 5 and 10, showed dancers performing allegedly obscene acts on stage.
However, what sparked public outrage was not just the performance, but the audience. The video purportedly showed uniformed police personnel throwing money at the dancers and recording videos, while SDM Tulsidas Markam was seen sitting in the audience as a “mute spectator.”
“Betrayal of Duty”: Collector’s Strong Words
Collector Bhagwan Singh Uike did not mince words in his order. He stated that as an Executive Magistrate, it was SDM Markam’s primary duty to stop such indecency. Instead, the officer remained present, effectively tacitly approving the event.
“The officer was present at the dance programme, and his involvement is visible. As the executive magistrate… it was his responsibility to stop this type of event. Instead, the programme continued in his presence.” — Bhagwan Singh Uike, Collector, Gariaband
Investigations revealed that SDM Markam had granted permission for the event without obtaining the mandatory reports from the local Tehsildar or Police Station—a serious procedural lapse.
Swift Action Taken:
- SDM Removed: Tulsidas Markam has been attached to the district headquarters; an inquiry has been ordered under the Additional Collector.
- Cops Suspended: Three policemen seen “enjoying” the event and throwing money have been suspended immediately.
- Organizers Arrested: Police have registered an FIR and arrested 14 members of the organizing committee responsible for the event.
Why This Matters
This incident has become a major talking point across Chhattisgarh because it highlights a breach of public trust. When law enforcers become law breakers—or in this case, spectators to illegality—it angers the common public. The swift action by the Gariaband Collector is being seen as a necessary move to restore faith in the local administration.
