The Supreme Court of India has reprimanded Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The court stated that in today’s democracy, the Chief Minister is not a king, but a servant of the people. The remarks were made during a hearing on the appointment of senior forest officer Rahul as Director of the Rajaji Tiger Sanctuary.
Chief Minister Dhami appointed Rahul despite ongoing departmental action against him. The state’s Forest Minister and Chief Administrative Secretary, along with senior officials, opposed this decision. However, CM Dhami ignored their objections and proceeded with the appointment.
Due to public and internal backlash, the state government reversed the decision three days ago.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court bench criticized the Chief Minister for showing undue favoritism towards the officer. They emphasized that when key officials, including ministers, disagree with a decision, thorough discussion should occur. The court questioned why an officer facing disciplinary action was given such a high position.
The state government’s lawyer argued that Rahul is an efficient officer being unfairly targeted. However, the court asked why departmental action was still underway if the officer was truly innocent.