In a significant move, the Uttar Pradesh government has suspended a deputy commissioner from the State Tax Department following serious sexual harassment allegations. The action, taken on August 6, 2025, involves Kamlesh Kumar Pandey, who was posted in the Mathura Division. The decision came after a female subordinate accused him of repeated misconduct, sparking outrage and a swift investigation.
The trouble began when the woman officer lodged a formal complaint, alleging that Pandey harassed her over time. Her report led to an internal probe by a special committee, which found enough evidence to warrant action. Alongside Pandey, six other officials, including members of the Vishaka Committee tasked with handling such cases, are also under the radar. Authorities suspect these members tried to downplay the incident, raising questions about accountability within the department.
This isn’t the first time such an issue has surfaced in Uttar Pradesh’s government offices. Recent months have seen similar cases, though none as high-profile as this one. In Mathura, the local administration acted quickly, with the state tax department issuing Pandey’s suspension under the 1999 disciplinary rules. He has been reassigned to the Joint Commissioner’s office in Banda pending further investigation. The move has been praised by some as a step toward justice, but others worry it’s just the start of a deeper problem.
The woman officer’s courage in speaking out has fueled discussions across the state. Reports suggest she faced unwanted advances and a hostile work environment, prompting her to approach higher officials. The Vishaka Committee, meant to protect employees from harassment, is now under scrutiny itself, with its members accused of trying to shield Pandey. This has left many wondering how common such cover-ups might be.
This incident comes at a time when workplace safety, especially for women, is a hot topic in India. Across the country, similar cases in police and other departments have sparked calls for better policies. For now, the focus remains on the investigation, Special Secretary of the State Tax Department, Kritika Jyotsna has been appointed as inquiry officer in this case.
