Keshav Maurya suspends three Block Development Officers; cracks down on corruption in the Rural Development Department

Keshav Prasad Maurya has taken a strict stance regarding instances of negligence in the protection, care, and management of cattle in *gaushalas* (cattle shelters). Disciplinary action has been initiated against two Block Development Officers (BDOs) in the Budaun district, while Sanjeev Kumar, the BDO of the Patiali block in Kasganj district, has been suspended and attached to the headquarters in connection with an incident involving a purported video.Mr. Maurya has directed the Principal Secretary of the Rural Development Department to ensure regular monitoring of all *gaushalas* across the state. In cases where mismanagement, irregularities, a lack of resources, or negligence in the care of cattle are identified, the concerned officials must be held accountable, and punitive action should be taken in accordance with the rules.In the Budaun district, Rakesh Kumar Nirala, the BDO of the Myaun block, has been found prima facie responsible for the death of 20 cattle at the Abhigao *gaushala*. Although the *gaushala* had a designated capacity for 100 cattle, 428 were found housed there. The failure to make temporary arrangements or provide additional sheds—despite a 'red alert' already being in effect in the district—has been deemed a case of serious negligence. Disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against him under Rule 7 of the Uttar Pradesh Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1999, and the Joint Development Commissioner of the Bareilly Division has been appointed as the inquiry officer.Taking *suo motu* cognizance of a purported video involving Sanjeev Kumar, the BDO of the Patiali block in Kasganj district, and noting clear indications of serious irregularities, Mr. Maurya has ordered his suspension and attachment to the headquarters.