Bihar Education Minister Expresses Displeasure with Officials' Adverse Media Coverage

Bihar's Education Minister, Chandrashekhar, has expressed his dissatisfaction with certain officials whom he believes have been portraying a negative image of the department through media coverage. Although the minister did not mention anyone by name, it is speculated that his criticism is aimed at the outspoken senior IAS officer, K.K. Pathak.

In a letter addressed to the additional chief secretary (education), Chandrashekhar warned officials against attempting to enhance their personal reputation at the expense of the department's image. He emphasized the importance of leaving media-related communications to the information and public relations department (IPRD). The minister stressed the need to take action against any official found violating these guidelines or sensationalizing closed-door discussions aimed at improving the system.

While Chandrashekhar did not explicitly name Pathak, officials familiar with the matter suggest that the education minister's frustration is directed towards the senior IAS officer. Following the public release of the minister's letter, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to Pathak's defense, stating that the minister was attempting to shift blame for his own shortcomings onto the IAS officer. The ruling Janata Dal-United (JD-U) also supported Pathak, highlighting his reputation for diligent work.

LETTER TO ADDITIONAL CHEIF SECRETARY- EDUCATION

The letter, accused certain individuals of selectively leaking information to tarnish the department's image and promote personal agendas. It also cautioned senior officials against projecting a "Robinhood" image through various media channels, such as YouTube, social media, WhatsApp groups, and portals. The minister's private secretary expressed the minister's concern that the department has been garnering negative media attention lately, with news leaks occurring before reaching the minister. Instead of focusing on education-related matters, the media coverage has predominantly revolved around peripheral issues, such as salary cuts, suspensions, and dress codes, creating an atmosphere of fear.

The letter called for public servants to maintain neutrality and anonymity while discharging their duties, emphasizing that credit for departmental work typically goes to the political leadership. It stressed the need to develop a system that ensures unbiased and anonymous service. While the department is open to disseminating important information in accordance with government policy, leaking confidential and negative information violates the Bihar government servant conduct rules of 1976 and the procedures set for news sharing through the information and public relations department.

The letter concluded by expressing the minister's deep discontent with the ongoing situation. Coincidentally, on the same day, a delegation from the Federation of University Teachers Association of Bihar (FUTAB) met with the Governor and Chancellor of universities, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, to raise concerns about the education department's demand for daily attendance reports from colleges and universities. The delegation argued that this violated the autonomy of universities and cited previous orders that had been withdrawn due to objections from the Chancellor's office.