Deputy Collector Resigns in MP, Citing Obstruction in Paying Reverence to Buddha's Relics

Bhopal— Deputy Collector Nisha Bangre, stationed in Chhatarpur in Madhya Pradesh has tendered her resignation, citing disappointment over the denial of her leave request. In a heartfelt handwritten letter addressed to the Principal Secretary of the General Administration Department in Bhopal, Deputy Collector Bangre expressed her anguish and explained the circumstances leading to her decision.

The incident unfolded when Bangre, currently serving as a Section Officer, sought permission to attend the inauguration of her own house and participate in a religious event scheduled for June 25 in Amla, located in Betul district. The General Administration Department did not grant her the requested leave, which prompted her to submit her resignation directly to the Principal Secretary.

Express disappointment, Religious discontent

In her resignation letter, Nisha Bangre conveyed her deep disappointment, stating, "I regretfully inform you that I have been deeply hurt by the department's refusal to allow me to be present at the inauguration of my own house. The denial to witness the ashes of the world peace ambassador, Tathagat Buddha, during this event has profoundly infringed upon my religious sentiments."

She further expressed her belief that compromising on her fundamental rights, religious beliefs, and constitutional values was incompatible with her role as Deputy Collector. Consequently, she felt it inappropriate to continue in her position, leading her to resign with immediate effect as of June 22.

The circumstances surrounding her resignation revolve around the upcoming International All Religion Peace Conference and the World Peace Prize Award ceremony, organized by the Gagan Malik Foundation in Amla, Betul district on June 25. Nisha Bangre had sought permission to attend this prestigious event, as well as the inauguration of her own house. Regrettably, the General Administration Department denied her request.

Bangre alleges that she was even prohibited from inaugurating her own residence. She claims that the administration has not provided any specific reasons or explanations for their decision. She emphasizes that if the program is canceled on this occasion, it could potentially lead to agitation among the followers of Tathagat Buddha.

Personal aspirations and bureaucratic protocols

Notably, the event in Amla is expected to witness the participation of representatives from various religions across 11 countries, including the law minister of Sri Lanka. Additionally, the event holds significance as it will showcase the arrival of Tathagat Buddha's relics from Sri Lanka.

The government's rejection of Bangre's application stems from the invocation of the state civil service conduct rules by the General Administration Department. On May 19, Deputy Collector Bangre had formally requested permission, but the department declined her appeal, resulting in the subsequent communication from the Under Secretary (Personnel) on June 15. Despite a follow-up letter from Bangre on June 20, reiterating her desire to participate in the inauguration of her house, the government persisted in its decision to deny her request.

At present, Bangre's resignation has not been accepted, leaving the future of her administrative career uncertain. The clash between personal and professional priorities, coupled with a sense of hurt and religious sentiment, has prompted this high-profile resignation, which has garnered attention and raised questions about the balance between personal aspirations and bureaucratic protocols.

Story Translated by Geetha Sunil Pillai