IAS officer shunted for emptying stadium to walk dog returns to Delhi as MCD commissioner
In a surprising turn of events, IAS officer Sanjeev Khirwar, who was moved out of Delhi in 2022 after a controversy surrounding the emptying of a government-run stadium to walk his dog, has returned to the national capital as the new Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Commissioner. This development has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the decision to appoint an officer with a chequered past to a key administrative position.
The incident in question occurred in 2022, when Khirwar, who was then serving as the Principal Secretary (Revenue) of the Delhi government, allegedly emptied the Thyagraj Stadium, a government-run facility, to walk his dog. Athletes who were training at the stadium at the time claimed that they were asked to wrap up their sessions earlier than usual to accommodate Khirwar’s canine companion. The incident sparked outrage, with many criticizing the misuse of power and the prioritization of personal interests over public facilities.
As a result of the controversy, Khirwar was shunted out of Delhi and relocated to a different posting. However, it appears that his career has not been significantly impacted by the incident, as he has now been appointed as the MCD Commissioner. This move has been confirmed by a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The appointment of Khirwar as MCD Commissioner has raised several questions about the criteria used to select officials for key administrative positions. While Khirwar’s professional qualifications and experience may make him a suitable candidate for the role, his past behavior has certainly raised concerns about his judgment and ability to prioritize the public interest.
The MCD is a critical institution responsible for providing essential services to the citizens of Delhi, including sanitation, healthcare, and infrastructure development. The Commissioner of the MCD plays a vital role in overseeing the functioning of the corporation and ensuring that these services are delivered efficiently and effectively. Given the importance of this position, it is essential that the person holding the office is not only competent but also possesses a strong sense of public service and accountability.
In this context, Khirwar’s appointment has sparked concerns about whether he is the right person for the job. While it is possible that he may have learned from his past mistakes and is committed to serving the public interest, his previous behavior suggests a lack of sensitivity to the needs and concerns of ordinary citizens.
Furthermore, the incident also highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency in the appointment of officials to key administrative positions. The process of selecting officials for such roles should be based on clear criteria, including their professional qualifications, experience, and track record of public service. It is also essential to ensure that officials who have been involved in controversies or have demonstrated questionable judgment in the past are held accountable and are not rewarded with prestigious postings.
In conclusion, the appointment of Sanjeev Khirwar as MCD Commissioner has raised several questions about the criteria used to select officials for key administrative positions and the need for greater accountability and transparency in the appointment process. While Khirwar’s professional qualifications and experience may make him a suitable candidate for the role, his past behavior has certainly raised concerns about his judgment and ability to prioritize the public interest. As the new MCD Commissioner, Khirwar will be expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and accountability, and to work tirelessly to address the needs and concerns of the citizens of Delhi.
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