The Bhopal patwari transfer list was altered within 24 hours, with 24 officials removed from the revised order, triggering questions over the transfer process and allegations of preferential treatment.

A major revision to the transfer list of patwaris in Madhya Pradesh's capital within a day of its issuance has sparked administrative and political debate. The transfers of 24 officials were effectively cancelled after their names were omitted from a revised order released less than 24 hours after the original list was issued.

The initial transfer order, issued by the Bhopal Collector’s office on June 15, involved 46 patwaris posted across different tehsils in the district. Most of the officials named in the list had reportedly been serving in the same locations, particularly Huzur and Kolar tehsils, for several years.

However, following an extension of the state government's transfer window after a Cabinet decision on June 16, a fresh order was issued late that night. The revised list excluded 24 names that had figured in the earlier order, effectively allowing those officials to remain at their existing postings.

Transfer Order Reworked

The sudden revision has raised questions about the rationale behind the changes and the process followed in preparing the second list.

Officials familiar with the matter said the original transfer exercise was intended to address concerns related to prolonged postings and administrative requirements. Several of the transferred patwaris had reportedly completed five to eight years in the same tehsil, while some were posted in their home areas.

The revised order, however, substantially altered the scope of the exercise and reduced the number of officials who would actually be shifted.

Allegations Surface

The development has led to allegations that certain officials managed to secure relief through influential connections.

According to sources, a large number of those whose transfers were dropped belonged to Huzur and Kolar tehsils. While such claims have gained traction in administrative circles, no official evidence or confirmation has been presented by authorities so far.

The Collector’s office has not publicly commented on the reasons behind the changes.

Names Draw Attention

Among the officials whose names were removed from the revised transfer order were Nidhi Nema and Kishore Singh Dangi.

Both had previously come under public scrutiny after a media sting operation conducted around two years ago allegedly showed monetary transactions involving revenue officials. While no fresh allegations have been made in connection with the current transfer exercise, the inclusion of their names among those receiving relief has attracted attention.

Several other patwaris who remained at their existing postings were reported to have served continuously in Huzur and Kolar between 2015 and 2022.

Political Speculation Emerges

The revised list has also triggered political discussions because most of the cancelled transfers reportedly involved officials posted in Huzur tehsil, while a smaller number belonged to Kolar.

Both regions fall within the Assembly constituency represented by MLA Rameshwar Sharma. This has led to speculation regarding possible political influence behind the changes.

However, no official complaint, document or evidence has been produced linking any elected representative to the revision of the transfer order.

Policy Questions Raised

The episode has also brought attention to the state's transfer policy. Under existing guidelines, transfers in a district are generally capped at 20 percent of the sanctioned workforce during a transfer exercise.

With 243 patwaris posted in Bhopal district, the permissible ceiling works out to 47 officials. While the original order covered 46 transfers, some observers argue that both the initial and revised orders should be considered part of the same administrative exercise, raising questions about procedural compliance.

E-Office Procedure Under Lens

Another issue being discussed is the manner in which the orders were issued.

According to sources, the June 15 transfer order carried physical signatures, while the revised order dated June 16 was processed through the e-office system. Clause 42 of the transfer policy requires transfer orders to be issued through the designated digital platform.

Officials familiar with the policy say this aspect may also come under scrutiny if the matter is examined further.

For now, the revised Bhopal patwari transfer list has become a subject of discussion within administrative circles, with attention focused on whether the General Administration Department will seek an explanation or order a review of the process followed.