MADHYA PRADESH: In a swift administrative action, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Arvind Mathur of Morena District in Madhya Pradesh has been suspended following allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards a woman during a public hearing.
The complaint was formally filed by Praveen, a local resident and social activist, prompting immediate scrutiny from district authorities.
The incident reportedly occurred earlier this week at the Sabalgarh SDM office, where the woman had approached Mathur with a grievance related to Economically Weaker Section certification delays.
State Chief Minister Mohan Yadav informed about the action taken by his government and wrote on his X handle that following serious allegations against Sabalgarh (Morena) SDM Arvind Mathur — pertaining to indecent behaviour towards a woman and unauthorised transfers of Patwaris — the officer has been ordered to be suspended with immediate effect.
Additionally, the Chambal Commissioner has been instructed to initiate disciplinary proceedings in the matter.
“There can be no compromise when it comes to maintaining the dignity and ethical standards of public service, ” the Chief Minister wrote.
Eyewitnesses claim that the SDM responded with hostility and used language that was deemed unprofessional and threatening. The situation escalated when Mathur allegedly made remarks that violated the dignity of the complainant, leading to public outrage and calls for disciplinary action.
Praveen, who accompanied the woman and later filed the complaint, stated, “This kind of behaviour from a public servant is unacceptable. We expect our officials to uphold the law and treat citizens with respect, not intimidate them.”