Many of the IAS father’s books are found in the libraries of Bihar Panchayats.
The list of books recommended for Bihar Panchayat libraries has sparked controversy. According to media reports, the bureaucrat’s father, who was the head of the department at the time, had written more than 20 books for the state’s panchayat library. The controversy caused a stir in political and administrative circles.
The matter came to light when a book list of around 1,600 books was approved for the Panchayat library on the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission. At this time, IAS officer Mihir Kumar Singh is the Additional Chief Secretary of Panchayati Raj Department. Following the controversy, Mihir Kumar Singh expressed his displeasure and said the list of books was approved by a committee and the controversy arose in the name of his father, who was awarded the Padma Shri medal.
The committee selected the books
“The books were selected by a committee that included officials and academicians from various departments,” Singh said, adding that the list included books in three categories: literature, general knowledge and science, and social sciences. According to him, none of the other books on this list are controversial, but it would be unfair to raise a controversy about his father’s book.
If violations are discovered, an investigation will be conducted
Reacting to the matter, Panchayati Raj Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta said that they will look into the matter and take action if any irregularities are found. “If his father was a literary man and the books written by him were suitable for the Panchayat library, then they would have been allowed,” he said. Similar views were expressed by Divesh Sehra, secretary of the Panchayat Raj department, who said The issue is not controversial and JP Singh’s book should be included in the Panchayat library.
Questions about book selection
However, the controversy has raised several questions for the state government and administration. Some people say that the government should ensure transparency in book selection and avoid any disciplinary violations. The matter awaits further action under the leadership of the Chief Minister.
