March 26 (Bihar Times) In a decisive step to restore disrupted land administration services, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha has authorised strict action against revenue and circle officers who have not resumed duty despite a government ultimatum.
Holding the Revenue and Land Reforms portfolio, Sinha said the department’s principal secretary has been empowered to initiate “strict, rules-based action” against officials continuing their strike. He noted that around two dozen circle officers have already returned to work following the warning, while a complete status report is awaited due to the ongoing holiday period.
Adopting a firm stance, the Deputy CM stated that the government would show “no sympathy” towards those failing to perform their duties, especially during crucial periods like the budget session and the financial year-end.
To ensure continuity of public services, the government has implemented alternative arrangements. With 273 available personnel—122 circle officers and 151 revenue officers—additional charge has been assigned to manage all 537 circles across the state.
Further, the department is planning to engage retired officers on a contractual basis, in line with General Administration Department guidelines, to address the manpower shortage. “These steps will ensure that public work does not suffer. The government is committed to delivering timely services and addressing public grievances,” Sinha said.
The ongoing strike has significantly impacted governance, with nearly 46 lakh land-related applications pending. The Deputy CM accused the striking officials of creating a “chaotic situation” by halting essential services.
Revenue and circle officers had resumed their indefinite strike on March 9, alleging that earlier assurances by the government were not fulfilled. The agitation had initially begun on February 2 following the state cabinet’s January 29 decision to create the post of sub-divisional revenue officer (SDRO), at par with the deputy collector land reforms (DCLR).
