Patna: Revenue work across Bihar has completely stopped after Circle Officers (COs) and Revenue Officers (ROs) went on strike against a decision of the Land Reforms and Revenue Department. The officers gathered in Patna under the banner of the Revenue Service Association, protesting what they describe as unfair changes in the department’s structure. As land records, certificates, mutation work and other public services remained pending in every circle office, the state government moved quickly and took a tough stand to bring the situation under control.
The Principal Secretary of the Land Reforms and Revenue Department issued an order directing all striking officers to return their government vehicles, internet dongles and keys to the record rooms. The order also stated that the senior-most revenue employee in each circle would be given charge as the in-charge Circle Officer so that basic work could continue. At the same time, the government announced that the officers on strike would not be paid during this period, strictly applying the rule of “no work, no pay”.
Deputy Chief Minister and Land Reforms and Revenue Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha supported the decision and said that strong steps were necessary for reform. Using a strong comparison, he said, “When treatment begins, the medicine tastes bitter,” adding that people should not worry because the government is working to fix long-standing problems in the department. He appealed to the officers to cooperate, saying that smooth reforms would improve the department’s efficiency and also increase the respect and prestige of the officers themselves.
The strike began after the government started considering the creation of a new post called Sub-Divisional Revenue Officer. According to the department, this new post will help solve land-related problems faster and make the system more efficient. However, the protesting officers fear that this change will block their promotion path to the post of Deputy Collector of Land Revenue (DCLR), which they see as an important step in their careers.
Angered by the government’s decision, the Revenue Service Association has announced that the strike and agitation will continue until the order is withdrawn. While the government says the reforms are necessary for the public good, the officers believe their future is at risk. As both sides remain firm, thousands of citizens across Bihar continue to face delays in important land and revenue services.
