Patna: The Bihar government has signalled a tougher stance against striking circle officers and revenue officers, warning of strict action over alleged intimidation of colleagues who have resumed duty.
Deputy chief minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, who also holds the revenue and land reforms portfolio, said any attempt to disrupt administrative functioning or law and order would not be tolerated.
He said threatening officials who have returned to work constituted a serious offence and that those involved would face action under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Information Technology Act.
Officials in the department of revenue and land reforms said instructions had been issued to all district magistrates to register first information reports in cases involving threats or obstruction of government work.
The directive follows complaints that some officers participating in the strike had allegedly used social media platforms and messaging services to intimidate colleagues and apply pressure through “naming and shaming”.
Principal secretary C K Anil said such actions would be treated not merely as violations of service rules but as criminal offences. Legal proceedings have been recommended under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with provisions of the IT Act.
The government has also indicated that individuals leading the agitation, including those who had previously resigned to contest elections, are under scrutiny.
Officials said the administration was closely monitoring the situation and that those found guilty would face strict consequences.
Meanwhile, pressure appears to be mounting on the striking officers’ association, with departmental sources indicating that at least 24 officers have returned to duty so far.
The government had earlier issued directions to ensure continuity of work by assigning additional charge of vacant posts to officers who were not part of the strike.
Authorities said district magistrates have been asked to take prompt action and submit reports on enforcement measures, as the state moves to restore normal functioning of revenue services.
