Submissive to Outspoken: Bureaucracy in Solidarity With HC Gupta

Many bureaucrats have openly aired their support for officer HC Gupta, who is an accused in the coal scam case.

Sanjay Bhoosreddy, secretary, Central IAS Association talks to The Quint’s reporter. (Photo: The Quint)

It seems the minds of the bureaucracy in the country are changing. Until now most IAS and IPS officers were known to have been dancing to the tunes of their political bosses. 

Several bureaucrats are now speaking openly about the system and social media has provided them with a platform to register their grievances.

Coming to Rescue of an ‘Honest’ Officer

In the case of former coal secretary HC Gupta who is accused in the coal scam, many officials have expressed their support for the officer.

A special court of Delhi recently filed a chargesheet against Gupta in the case. He is currently out on bail and said he will fight the case himself because he does not have the financial resources to hire a lawyer.

IAS Association believes that he is an honest officer and has been framed by the system. Therefore, it feels if he is not backed by the Association, it will demoralise other honest officers and prevent them from taking important policy decisions – leading to a breakdown of the system.

According to Sanjay Bhoosreddy, Secretary, Central IAS Association, Gupta was always known as a man of great honesty and integrity. He retired in 2008.

Bureaucracy is Now Openly Speaking About their Problems

Officials ask if necessary decisions are not taken, the administration can’t function. They say that whatever happened to retired bureaucrats in connection with the coal scam continues till date.

The honest officials continue to get targeted and the ones doing that are their retired and serving colleagues. As the former become more outspoken, the latter are getting anxious.

Even Amitabh Kant, CEO, Niti Aayog believes that no case of corruption or criminal conspiracy can be made against the former coal secretary. He has also testified to the honesty of HC Gupta.

Former Election Commissioner SY Quraishi has also spoken his mind on this issue.

IAS Anil Swarup is also seen openly supporting Gupta on this issue.

Since the matter is sub-judice, the bureaucrats can do no more than make comments. However, the fact that they have started speaking out is in itself a major development.