Srinagar: A video showing senior IAS officer Kumar Rajeev Ranjan allegedly abusing a woman subordinate during an official virtual meeting in Jammu and Kashmir has triggered widespread criticism, with political leaders and members of the administrative services demanding accountability.
The incident involves Beenish Wani, a Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer posted as Assistant Director at the Employment and Counselling Centre in Ganderbal. The confrontation reportedly took place on October 14 during a review meeting on Mission YUVA, a government initiative aimed at promoting youth employment and entrepreneurship.
According to the circulating footage, the argument began when Ranjan questioned Wani about the involvement of the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) in work assigned to her department. Wani attempted to explain that the agency was assisting with implementation, but the discussion escalated.
Ranjan is heard using derogatory language and asserting his authority over Wani. He also directed officials to prepare a suspension order against her and write to the General Administration Department seeking her dismissal, according to reports based on the video.
Wani challenged the language used against her during the exchange. She subsequently confirmed that the video was genuine and not morphed or generated using artificial intelligence. She said she had joined the meeting from home despite being on leave with a fractured foot, stressing that a woman’s dignity must be protected.
Ranjan, meanwhile, expressed regret over any inappropriate remarks made in the heat of the moment. He argued that the entire meeting should be considered before conclusions are drawn, maintaining that review meetings are necessary to assess performance and establish accountability.
The Jammu and Kashmir Labour and Employment Department has also addressed the controversy. It said the circulating clips were selectively edited and stressed that professional conduct, discipline and mutual respect must be maintained during official interactions. The department said the complete recording was available with the National Informatics Centre (NIC) and indicated that the matter would be dealt with under applicable rules.
The controversy has drawn political reactions, with Peoples Democratic Party leader Iltija Mufti demanding action against Ranjan and condemning the language used during the exchange. The incident has also prompted calls from members of the JKAS fraternity for an impartial inquiry.
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