Controversy has arisen over the list of books recommended for Panchayat libraries in Bihar. According to media reports, more than 20 books for the state's panchayat libraries were written by the bureaucrat's father, who was heading the department at that time. This controversy has created a stir in political and administrative circles.
This matter came to light when a list of about 1,600 books was approved for Panchayat libraries under the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission. At this time IAS officer Mihir Kumar Singh was the Additional Chief Secretary of Panchayati Raj Department. After the controversy arose, Mihir Kumar Singh expressed his displeasure and said that the list of these books was approved by a committee, and the controversy arose over the books in the name of his father, who was awarded the Padma Shri. is being done.
Singh said, 'The books were selected by a committee, which included officials from various departments and academicians.' He also said that the list included books from three categories—literature, general knowledge and science, and social science. According to him, there was no controversy over all the other books in this list, but it was unfair to raise controversy over his father's books.
Panchayati Raj Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta, reacting to the matter, said that they will investigate the matter and if any irregularity is found, action will be taken. He said, 'If his father was a litterateur and the books written by him are suitable for panchayat libraries, then they will be allowed.' Similar views were also expressed by Divesh Sehra, Secretary, Panchayati Raj Department, who said that there is no controversy on this issue and JP Singh's books should be included in the Panchayat libraries.
However, this controversy has raised some questions for the state government and administration. Some people say that the administration should ensure that transparency is maintained in the selection of books, so that any kind of indiscipline can be avoided. Further action in this matter is awaited under the leadership of the Chief Minister.
