The Jammu and Kashmir government has commenced an investigation into a recent incident involving senior IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan, who was recorded verbally abusing a female subordinate during a virtual meeting. The incident, which occurred on October 4, 2023, has sparked significant public outrage after the video circulated widely on social media.

Ranjan, who serves as the Administrative Secretary in the Labour and Employment Department, was seen berating Beenish Wani, a 2015-batch Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services (JKAS) officer, during a review of the Mission YUVA initiative. In the footage, Ranjan is heard repeatedly interrupting Wani as she attempted to explain the role of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) in supporting local initiatives.

His aggressive tone escalated when he dismissed her attempts to clarify her position, leading to a heated exchange where he used derogatory language. Ranjan allegedly threatened to suspend Wani and sought her dismissal from service, demanding immediate action against her. The incident has prompted calls for accountability from various political leaders and organisations, with many demanding that the officer face disciplinary measures. The video has raised concerns about workplace conduct and the treatment of female officials in the administration.

Political and Professional Responses

Political figures have expressed their disapproval of Ranjan’s conduct. National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah described the behaviour as unacceptable and called for Ranjan’s removal from the Union Territory. Abdullah emphasised that government officials should uphold professional standards and treat citizens with respect. He stated that Ranjan’s actions were contrary to the expectations of public service, highlighting the need for accountability among senior officials.

PDP leader Iltija Mufti also condemned the language allegedly used by Ranjan, demanding immediate suspension. In her remarks on social media platform X, Mufti questioned the authority of senior officials who allegedly misuse their power against local officers. She expressed concern over the treatment of Kashmiri Administrative Services officers, alleging a pattern of sidelining competent local officials since 2019.

The JKAS fraternity has voiced its support for Wani, asserting that while administrative accountability is crucial, no official should tolerate abusive language or intimidation. They have raised concerns about Ranjan’s history of using inappropriate language in professional settings and have called for a thorough investigation into the matter.

Further Developments and Investigations

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken note of the incident and has reached out to the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary, requesting verification of the video and an impartial inquiry. The commission has sought a report detailing the actions taken within a seven-day timeframe, emphasising the need for appropriate disciplinary measures if the allegations are substantiated.

In addition to the current investigation, Ranjan is reportedly under scrutiny by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for his alleged involvement in an arms licence case. A case concerning disproportionate assets was registered against him and his family members last year, raising further questions about his conduct and integrity.

Ranjan, who previously held the position of Deputy Commissioner of Kupwara, is facing allegations of irregularities in the issuance of arms licences to non-residents in Jammu and Kashmir. The ongoing investigations into both the verbal abuse incident and the arms licence case have placed Ranjan under significant scrutiny, with the outcomes likely to have implications for his career and the administration in the region.

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