Assam
Arpana Sarmah’s suspension came days after she filed an FIR against Nalbari DC Varnali Deka, alleging mental harassment.

Guwahati: A revenue circle officer in Assam’s Nalbari district has been suspended for alleged negligence in election duty.

Revenue Circle Officer Arpana Sarmah of Paschim Nalbari revenue circle was suspended with effect from May 15.

The suspension order, signed by Principal Secretary of Revenue, Gyanendra Dev Tripathi, cited Sarmah’s “reported abandonment of election duties, insubordination, disruptive behaviour, and utter negligence in works related to Lok Sabha elections.”

The Chief Electoral Officer of Assam informed that the Election Commission directed Sarmah’s suspension. The commission has also recommended the initiation of departmental proceedings against her.

“During the period of suspension, the headquarters of Ms Arpana Sarmah, ALRS, will be at the Office of the Director of Land Records and Surveys, Rajah Nagar, Rupnagar, Guwahati, and subsistence allowance shall be paid as admissible under rules,” the order added.

Sarmah’s suspension came days after she filed an FIR against Nalbari District Commissioner (DC) Varnali Deka, alleging mental harassment.

In her complaint filed at Nalbari Sadar police station, Sarmah claimed she has endured severe mental distress since January 24, 2024, following an incident related to the procurement of gamosa for freedom fighters.

Sarmah alleged that DC Deka has been continuously scrutinizing her with malicious intent, seeking to assign blame on the flimsiest of grounds.

However, Nalbari police did not register her complaint against DC Deka.