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 relocated from Delhi in 2022 after a controversy surrounding the emptying of a government-run stadium to walk his dog, has returned to the city as the new Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) Commissioner. This development has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the decision to bring back an officer who was previously embroiled in a scandal.
The incident in question occurred in 2022, when Khirwar, who was then serving as Delhi’s Principal Secretary (Revenue), allegedly emptied the Thyagraj Stadium, a Delhi 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 move was widely criticized, with many labeling it an abuse of power and a disregard for the needs of the athletes who used the stadium.
Following the controversy, Khirwar was shunted out of Delhi, a move that was seen as a punitive measure for his actions. However, it now appears that the officer has been given a second chance, with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issuing a notification confirming his appointment as the new MCD Commissioner.
The appointment has sparked a debate, with many questioning the wisdom of bringing back an officer who was previously involved in a controversy. Critics argue that the move sends the wrong message and undermines the efforts to promote accountability and transparency within the bureaucracy. Others have expressed concern about the potential impact on the athletes who use the stadium, who may once again find themselves being asked to accommodate Khirwar’s personal needs.
It is worth noting that the Thyagraj Stadium is a public facility, funded by taxpayer money, and is intended to provide a space for athletes to train and practice. The fact that an IAS officer was able to empty the stadium to walk his dog raises serious questions about the misuse of power and the lack of accountability within the system.
The MCD Commissioner is a key position, responsible for overseeing the administration of the city’s municipal corporation. The role involves managing a vast array of responsibilities, including sanitation, public health, and infrastructure development. Given the importance of the position, it is surprising that an officer with a controversial past has been chosen for the role.
Khirwar’s appointment has also raised questions about the criteria used to select officers for key positions. While the IAS officer may have the necessary qualifications and experience for the role, his previous actions have raised concerns about his judgment and ability to prioritize the needs of the public.
As the new MCD Commissioner, Khirwar will be responsible for addressing a range of challenges facing the city, from improving sanitation and public health to enhancing infrastructure and services. However, his appointment has already sparked controversy, and it remains to be seen how he will navigate the complex web of responsibilities and expectations that come with the role.
In conclusion, the appointment of Sanjeev Khirwar as the new MCD Commissioner has raised eyebrows, given his previous involvement in a controversy surrounding the emptying of a government-run stadium to walk his dog. While the officer may have the necessary qualifications and experience for the role, his past actions have raised concerns about his judgment and ability to prioritize the needs of the public. As the city looks to the future, it is essential that officers in key positions are held to the highest standards of accountability and transparency.
About the Author
