Patna: The Government of Bihar has removed Mithilesh Mishra from his post as district magistrate of Lakhisarai, following allegations of irregularities in paddy procurement.
An order issued by the General Administration Department on Tuesday relieved Mishra of his duties and directed him to report to the department’s headquarters in Patna. Additional district magistrate Neeraj has been given additional charge of the post.
Probe into procurement irregularities
The action is linked to alleged discrepancies in the allocation of an additional paddy procurement target during the 2025–26 season. While the district’s original target was set at 47,235 metric tonnes, an additional 8,000 metric tonnes was later allocated.
Complaints were received alleging that norms were not followed in distributing this additional target, prompting an inquiry by the Department of Cooperation.
Explanation termed unsatisfactory
During the investigation, Mishra was asked to submit an explanation, which he provided on March 24. Officials said the response was found to be unsatisfactory and did not align with official records.
The General Administration Department has classified the matter as misconduct under the All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968, and has initiated departmental proceedings under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969.
Tenure and next steps
Mishra had been serving as district magistrate of Lakhisarai since September 2024. His removal after around 18 months in office has triggered discussion within administrative circles.
Officials said the inquiry into the alleged irregularities is ongoing, and further action may follow depending on the findings.
