Himachal BDC member suspended over alleged moral policing incident

In a move that underscores the importance of communal harmony and accountability, a Block Development Committee (BDC) member in Himachal Pradesh has been suspended for alleged moral policing and inappropriate behavior toward a person from a minority community. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Hemraj Bairwa invoked the Panchayati Raj Act to suspend Sushma Devi, instructing her to return any Panchayat Samiti property in her possession to the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Lambagaon.

The controversy erupted after a video went viral on social media, showing Sushma Devi in a heated altercation with a hawker belonging to a minority community. In the video, she allegedly told the hawker to avoid entering the village and demanded that he chant “Jai Shri Ram,” a phrase that has sparked significant debate in recent years. The hawker later lodged an FIR at the Alampur police station, igniting public outrage and protests.

The video drew sharp criticism from various quarters, with many accusing Sushma Devi of religious discrimination and misuse of her position. Responding to the incident, DC Bairwa issued a show-cause notice to Devi, seeking an explanation for her actions. In her defense, Devi claimed that her remarks were unintentional and not aimed at offending religious sentiments. However, the authorities found her response unsatisfactory.

The suspension order cited Sushma Devi’s failure to fulfill the duties of her public office responsibly, labeling her actions as unbecoming of a Panchayat representative. The case has sparked discussions on the role of public officials in maintaining communal harmony and the rising concerns around religious intolerance.

This incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for public representatives to act with fairness and sensitivity, especially in a diverse society. As debates around accountability and inclusivity continue, the suspension marks a strong stance against actions that threaten communal peace.