Was Morena SDM Arvind Mathur Suspended Over Misconduct Allegations?

Morena (Madhya Pradesh), Sep 19 (NationPress) In a decisive administrative move, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Arvind Mathur from Morena District in Madhya Pradesh has been suspended due to claims of inappropriate conduct towards a woman during a public hearing.

The complaint was lodged by Praveen, a local resident and social activist, which led to immediate action from district officials.

This incident reportedly took place earlier this week at the Sabalgarh SDM office, where the woman approached Mathur regarding delays in her Economically Weaker Section certification.

State Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced the government's response on his X account, stating that serious allegations against Mathur—including indecent behaviour towards a woman and unauthorized Patwari transfers—resulted in his immediate suspension.

The Chambal Commissioner has also been directed to commence disciplinary proceedings regarding the case.

“There can be no compromise when it comes to maintaining the dignity and ethical standards of public service,” the Chief Minister emphasized.

Witnesses reported that the SDM reacted with hostility, using language considered unprofessional and intimidating. The situation intensified when Mathur allegedly made remarks that undermined the dignity of the complainant, which triggered public outrage and demands for disciplinary measures.

Praveen, who was with the woman and later submitted the complaint, stated, “Such behaviour from a public servant is intolerable. We expect our officials to uphold the law and treat citizens with respect, not intimidation.”

The complaint was filed at the Morena Collector’s office and was supported by video evidence circulating on social media that captured parts of the incident.

This footage, depicting Mathur yelling and gesturing aggressively, drew widespread condemnation from civil society groups and political figures.

Former Union Minister Arun Yadav also called for strict action, labeling the incident “a stain on the democratic process.”

In response to a preliminary inquiry and growing public pressure, the General Administration Department (GAD) issued an order suspending Mathur while a thorough investigation is conducted.

A senior district administration official confirmed, “The suspension is a procedural measure to ensure an unbiased inquiry. We are committed to upholding transparency and accountability.”

This is not the first time Mathur has faced scrutiny over his behaviour. Past complaints have emerged regarding his harsh handling of public grievances, but no formal actions had been taken until this incident.

The woman involved has since received support from local advocacy groups demanding institutional reforms to prevent similar misconduct in future hearings.

Meanwhile, Praveen has pledged to persist in his campaign for administrative accountability, asserting, “This is just the beginning. We will not rest until justice is achieved.”

Additionally, in a blatant breach of administrative protocol, SDM Mathur reportedly executed several unauthorized transfers of Patwaris, despite clear instructions from the District Collector forbidding such actions.

This has raised serious concerns regarding procedural integrity and the abuse of authority within the Sabalgarh subdivision.

Sources within the district administration indicated that Mathur disregarded standard approval processes, undermining the Collector’s directives and disrupting routine land revenue operations.