Mallikarjun Kharge writes to PM Modi, objects to bureaucrats being deployed as 'Rath Prabharis'

A political storm is likely in the offing after Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi objecting to a recent government directive outlining plans for a nationwide "yatra" and labelling it as a "blatant misuse of government resources."

According to the order, senior bureaucrats of ranks as high as Director, Deputy Director and Joint Secretary will be deployed as 'Rath Prabharis' in highlighting the accomplishments of the nine-year BJP government.

Citing Central Civil Conduct (Rules) 1964, the leader pointed out the violation of the rule that says no government servant shall take part in political activity.

The Congress chief also expressed concern over a previous order from the Defense Ministry, instructing soldiers on their annual leave to dedicate time to promoting government schemes, essentially designating them as "soldier-ambassadors."