On April 30, the chief officer of Bhuj municipality in Gujarat, Jigar Patel, was suspended with immediate effect for falling asleep during a function that was attended by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. The suspension was ordered by the State’s Urban Development and Urban Housing Department, just hours after cameras caught Jigar Patel sleeping at the Bhuj function.
The official statement from the department cited “gross negligence and lack of devotion to duty” as the reasons for Jigar Patel’s suspension. The suspension was ordered under Rule 5(1)(a) of Gujarat Civil Service (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1971. The statement further explained that disciplinary action was taken due to his misconduct and lapse.
The function was organized to distribute documents of ownership (property cards) of residential housing for the rehabilitation of around 14,000 people affected by earthquakes in Kutch. The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, was present at the function to distribute these documents.
Jigar Patel was caught on camera dozing off during this important function. The footage was circulated on social media, drawing widespread criticism from the public. Many people expressed outrage that an official responsible for such an important function could be seen sleeping.
The suspension of Jigar Patel has served as a warning to other officials and government employees that they need to be vigilant and perform their duties with dedication and commitment. The state government has emphasized that such lapses will not be tolerated and that officials who do not take their responsibilities seriously will face disciplinary action.
In conclusion, the suspension of Jigar Patel for falling asleep during a function attended by the Chief Minister of Gujarat sends a strong message to government officials and employees that they need to take their duties seriously. This incident highlights the importance of being alert and attentive during important functions, especially those related to the welfare of the public.