A video capturing the reprehensible behaviour of a government official, believed to be the Tehsildar of Sopore, has sparked controversy and outrage after it circulated widely on social media platforms.
In the two-minute and 20-second clip, the official can be seen resorting to threats and humiliation during a visit to the nearby Tarzoo village of Sopore in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.
Expressing their condemnation, the local traders’ body at Tarzoo staged a peaceful protest, denouncing such acts of aggression as “gundagardi” and “unacceptable”.
The video footage, obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), shows the Tehsildar making intimidating remarks, including threatening physical violence against the people. The video shows him saying, “You have seen a barber till now, not a Tehsildar. Don’t talk, I will beat you here only.”
The Tehsildar accused the people of being blackmailers and also levelled the same accusation towards media personnel present at the scene.
His hostile demeanour towards the general public and the media has evoked widespread condemnation and outrage.
The incident has raised serious questions about the conduct of government officials and their treatment of citizens. Many are calling for accountability and disciplinary action against the Tehsildar for his “unacceptable” behaviour.
While the authorities are yet to comment on the matter officially, the viral video clip has sparked widespread discussions about the importance of professionalism, respect and empathy in public service.
Netizens have also expressed their shock and dismay over the Tehsildar’s behaviour, with many demanding swift action against him.
“This is the second time I am seeing his video in which he misbehaves with common people. Action must be taken! He has a colonial mindset. Nonsense,” wrote Junaid Younis.
Muhammad Taufiq, another social media user reacted, “Shocking ! A public servent is behaving like a dictator its not new I have seen him being rude in many fb post especially with poor street vendor’s.”
A local traders’ body in Tarzoo which staged a peaceful protest against the Tehsildar’s behaviour, said the government officials must treat citizens with respect and refrain from resorting to intimidation tactics.
Reyaz Ahmed Mir, president of the traders’ body, expressed concern over the incident, saying the government official must maintain professionalism and respect during interactions with citizens.
“Tehsildar was on a visit to Tarzoo village to address the issue of encroachment and ensure the smooth movement along roadsides; however, his behaviour towards Fayaz Ahmed Bhat, a former president of the traders’ body was both strange and unacceptable,” Reyaz said.
When reached for comment, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa said appropriate action will be taken after examining the facts surrounding the incident—(KNO)