Govt issues notice to IAS officer over objectionable remark:Calls statement on Brahmin girls ‘serious misconduct’; asks why disciplinary action should not be taken

The Madhya Pradesh government has issued a notice to a senior IAS officer and Anusuchit Jati-Janjati Adhikari Karmachari Sangh (AJJAKS) state president, Santosh Kumar Verma, over a controversial remark he made regarding Brahmin daughters. The statement, made during AJJAKS’s provincial conference in Bhopal on 23 November 2025, has sparked widespread outrage. Government seeks explanation for misconduct According to the notice issued late Wednesday by the Department of General Administration, Verma’s statement does not align with the expected conduct of Indian Administrative Service officers. The notice categorises his remarks as indiscipline, arbitrariness, and serious misconduct. The notice cites violations of the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1967, and asks Verma to explain why disciplinary action under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969 should not be taken against him. The officer has been given seven days to respond, failing which the government warned of unilateral action. Controversial statement sparks backlash During the AJJAKS provincial conference at Ambedkar Maidan, Bhopal, Verma, recently elected provincial president, reportedly said:
“Reservation should be given to one person in a family until my son receives a Brahmin daughter as dowry or has a relationship with her.” The video of the statement went viral, leading to protests and condemnation from political leaders and civil society. Political leaders demand strict action BJP state minister Lokendra Parashar condemned the remarks on social media, saying: A daughter belongs to everyone and should be equally respected. Any senior official holding such abhorrent views is unfit for service and must face legal and societal punishment.
Social groups protest Dispute Over AJJAKS Presidency Separately, there is ongoing tension regarding the leadership of AJJAKS. Another faction led by Mukesh Maurya claims that former Additional Chief Secretary JN Kansotia illegally convened three general meetings after retirement. Maurya’s faction asserts that Kansotia-supported members are illegitimate. The Registrar of Firms and Societies has already registered Mukesh Maurya as the new president, and the government is expected to confirm this appointment soon. This incident highlights the growing scrutiny on public officials’ statements and the political and social pressure that follows, particularly when remarks target community sensitivities.