A collector is a leader, not a commander, who imposes dominion over autonomous entities."

The Allahabad High Court recently emphasised that District Collectors must refrain from extending their influence to independent departments and organisations despite wielding authority since the British era. The court remarked, "A collector is a leader, not a commander, who imposes dominion over autonomous entities."

The observation came during a hearing by Justice JJ Munir, addressing the suspension of Balrampur’s Electricity Distribution Department Executive Engineer, Dushyant Kumar Rai. The court criticised involving collectors in internal departmental matters unrelated to revenue administration.

Highlighting irregularities, the court immediately upheld Rai's suspension orders and reinstated him. The state government has been given two weeks to respond to the inquiry raised.
The matter arose when complaints were lodged against Rai by the Minister of Food and Civil Supplies, accusing him of harassment and lodging false cases against electricity consumers. Acting on these grievances, the District Magistrate of Balrampur conducted a preliminary investigation before approving disciplinary actions.

Subsequently, Rai was suspended on orders issued by the Chief Engineer of the Azamgarh Electricity Department following alleged threats and misuse of authority. The court, however, questioned the legitimacy of such interferences, terming it a misuse of power by the District Magistrate beyond their jurisdiction.

The Allahabad High Court’s sharp commentary seeks to reinforce the boundaries of administrative leadership, ensuring that independent departments operate free from undue influence.