NCW Initiates Inquiry into Alleged Misconduct by IAS Officer
The National Commission for Women has responded to a viral video showing misconduct by IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan.
NCW has taken suo motu cognisance of a viral video involving IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan.
An inquiry has been ordered by the Jammu and Kashmir Government, with a report due in 15 days.
The Commission emphasizes the need for a safe and respectful workplace for women officers.
On October 16, the National Commission for Women (NCW) announced it would investigate a viral video that allegedly depicts IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan verbally abusing and threatening junior officer Beenish Wani during an official meeting in Jammu and Kashmir.
In its statement, the NCW chairperson, Vijaya Rahatkar, reached out to the Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir, requesting verification of the video's authenticity and a thorough inquiry into the claims made. The Commission is advocating for disciplinary and legal measures should the allegations prove true, and it has called for protective measures against workplace harassment and retaliation for the involved officer.
The NCW has demanded an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the Chief Secretary within a week, emphasizing that every woman officer deserves a workplace that is safe, respectful, and dignified. The Commission highlighted the seriousness of addressing abuse of authority and workplace humiliation.
Kumar Rajeev Ranjan serves as the Administrative Secretary for the Labour and Employment Department, while Beenish Wani holds the position of Assistant Director in the Employment Department, part of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS). This incident has raised significant concerns regarding workplace conduct and the treatment of female officers in the region.
In response to the allegations, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has initiated its own inquiry, appointing IAS officer Mandeep Kaur as the Inquiry Officer. She has been tasked with submitting her findings within 15 days, which will be crucial in determining the next steps in this matter.
