Chhattisgarh Speaker Raman Singh Reprimands Bemetara Collector, SP Over Protocol Lapses
Raipur
Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Speaker and former Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh publicly reprimanded the Bemetara Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP) over alleged protocol violations and administrative mismanagement during a government event. A video of the incident, which occurred in the presence of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, has surfaced on social media.
The lapses took place during a mass wedding ceremony organized under the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana, which also included foundation stone-laying and inauguration programmes. The event was attended by senior leaders, including Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, and Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao.
Chaos unfolded when heavy rainfall and strong winds disrupted the programme. Due to the sudden weather change, the administration was forced to cancel the main blessing ceremony and the scheduled inauguration events. Several attendees were seen using plastic chairs as makeshift shields to protect themselves from the rain.
The confrontation occurred during an alternative programme arranged at the Circuit House after the cancellation of the main event. Dr. Raman Singh expressed strong displeasure over the stage arrangements and the reception protocol for the visiting dignitaries.
“This is not the proper way. The Chief Minister is present here, and he is being welcomed from behind. This shows administrative negligence,” Dr. Raman Singh told the Collector and the SP.
He further warned officials to ensure that such protocol lapses do not occur again.
The Speaker also criticized the district administration for failing to arrange an alternative indoor venue despite having nearly two and a half hours after the weather deteriorated. He pointed out that the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and several cabinet ministers were left waiting because of the lack of timely arrangements.
“I served as Chief Minister for 15 years but never witnessed such mismanagement. Perhaps they will learn from this experience now. If this incident had not occurred, they might not have learned. I said what needed to be said,” Dr. Raman Singh remarked.
The incident has sparked discussion over administrative preparedness, event management, and adherence to government protocol during high-profile public programmes.
